April 19, 2018
In a curious incident at a Pennsylvania middle school, a teacher found himself under scrutiny for making pancakes while students were taking standardized tests. Standardized testing can be a daunting experience for students, but many educators try to lighten the mood through small allowances. For instance, some teachers permit chewing gum or reading once tests are complete. However, eighth-grade social studies teacher, Mark Sullivan, took a different approach that led to disciplinary actions.
While administering the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA), Sullivan decided to prepare whole grain pancakes in a corner of the classroom. His intentions were to provide a comforting snack, but the vice principal deemed the cooking activity a “distraction” to the students focused on their assessments.
One student, Maria Gonzalez, shared with a local news outlet, “The real distraction was when the principal walked in and gave him that look. Everyone turned around then. But we just kept working.”
Sullivan expressed his bewilderment over the situation. “I truly don’t understand what I did wrong. There was absolutely no infraction. My students were fully engaged in their work,” he told the Lancaster Herald. Following the incident, he was suspended without pay. During a subsequent school board meeting, discussions about his employment took place. Although termination was not on the agenda, many parents and students rallied in support of Sullivan.
Parent Angela Torres commented, “He’s facing suspension over pancakes. He’s a fantastic teacher, a mentor, and a father figure to these kids. This situation is unjust.” Another student, Lucas Hernandez, added, “What happened was totally unfair. All this over pancakes is ridiculous.”
According to school board member Sarah Jenkins, “All educators serving as PSSA proctors receive training on testing protocols. If permission had been requested to prepare food during the testing, we would have informed the teacher that it could interfere with monitoring duties.” Jenkins noted that students are provided free meals during school hours.
While the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s representative, Nicole Thompson, acknowledged there are no explicit rules against cooking during tests, she mentioned that such activities could disrupt the monitor’s focus, which is crucial during assessments.
Fortunately, the Lancaster Herald later reported that Sullivan would return to teach, which brought relief to his students and their families. “He’s an amazing teacher who has always been there for me. When he was gone, I felt lost,” remarked student Emily Rivera.
“It takes a community to raise our children,” said Maria’s mother, Laura, who highlighted Sullivan’s significant role in their lives.
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In summary, a middle school teacher faced disciplinary action for making pancakes during standardized testing, which was deemed a distraction. While some students and parents rallied in support of the teacher, school officials emphasized the importance of adhering to testing protocols. Ultimately, the teacher was allowed to return to his classroom, bringing relief to many.