New Jersey

NJ School District Apologizes to Parents After Substitute Teacher Tells First-Graders Santa Isn't Real

Administrators haven't released the teacher's name or said if she would be allowed to work again in the district

What to Know

  • An NJ school district has apologized for a substitute teacher who told first-grade kids that Santa Claus wasn't real
  • Cedar Hill School Principal Michael Raj said in a letter he sent to parents that he understands the "sensitive nature" of the topic
  • Administrators haven't released the teacher's name or said if she would be allowed to work again in the district

A New Jersey school district has apologized for a substitute teacher who told first-grade students that Santa Claus wasn't real.

Cedar Hill School Principal Michael Raj sent a letter to parents following the incident Thursday at the school in Montville. Raj noted that as a parent himself, he understands the "sensitive nature" of the topic.

Montville Schools Superintendent Rene Rovtar said in a statement that she was "troubled and disheartened by this incident." Rovtar explained that "childhood wonder associated with all holidays and traditions" is special to her.

Raj says he has spoken with the teacher about her "poor judgment."

Administrators haven't released the teacher's name or said if she would be allowed to work again in the district.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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