While it is not uncommon for educators to face criticism for expressing their political views inappropriately, a particular incident in California took things to an extreme when a teacher ventured into sensitive territory during a sex education class.
According to the Orange County Register, Judy Rehburg, an educator at El Dorado High School in Placentia, California, has found herself in a controversial situation.
It is alleged that she was captured on video discussing sex toys and the significance of the prostate in sexual satisfaction with her students. As a result of parental concerns regarding the online footage, Judy Rehburg, who teaches physiology and AP environmental science, has been temporarily placed on administrative leave.
From New York Post:
Regardless of whether the video was misconstrued or not, it is unquestionably inappropriate for a teacher to share personal experiences from the bedroom with a group of children.
Rehburg’s undated school syllabus on the school website explains that her anatomy and physiology class could include a unit covering pregnancy and the reproductive system.
In 2016, the state Board of Education approved comprehensive sex education laws to include inclusivity for health education.
Three years later, the California Healthy Youth Act was modified to include education for LGBTQ+ sexual health, the outlet said.
The district said it is conducting an investigation into the teacher’s conduct.
“With that being said, PYLUSD and EDHS will continue to work diligently to ensure that all students are afforded the opportunity to learn in a safe and respectful environment,” said Griffiths.
Rehburg could not immediately be reached and the Association of Placentia-Linda Educators, which represents her, declined to comment, the Register reported.
Despite the backlash, some people expressed support for the embattled teacher.
The Instagram account @freejudy said the video was taken out of context, claiming that Rehburg was “simply answering students’ questions anatomically.”
If I were one of those parents, I would undoubtedly be furious.
