Taber teacher removed from classroom after accusations of inappropriate behaviour

Students from W.R. Myer High School voiced concerns over alleged inappropriate behaviour of one teacher via an online petition. (Google Maps - image credit)
Students from W.R. Myer High School voiced concerns over alleged inappropriate behaviour of one teacher via an online petition. (Google Maps - image credit)

A Taber teacher has been removed from any student involvement following an online petition citing allegations of inappropriate behaviour with underage students.

A student from the town's W.R. Myers High School is championing the petition, which calls for the teacher to be fired for alleged wrongdoing.

More than 580 people, including former and current students and family members, have signed the petition since it was launched two days ago.

In a statement from the Horizon School Division, which is in charge of W.R. Myers, the school board said it cannot address specifics of the situation, but it is aware of the petition and the allegations are being investigated.

"The instant we receive information that causes us concern for the safety of our students, we move immediately to review the circumstances and take steps to safeguard the safety of the students in our care," said Wilco Tymensen, superintendent of the Horizon School Division.

"I can share that the individual is not in direct contact with students, pending the outcome of our complete review."

None of the allegations made against the teacher have been proven in court.

Tymensen said the school division's actions are guided by its commitment to student safety, its responsibility under the Education Act, respect for the legal process and the privacy of all individuals.