Apology Issued for School Handbook
San Diego city schools Supt. Tom Payzant formally apologized Tuesday for the choice of a cartoon on the cover of a parent handbook distributed to students this year.
The cover cartoon depicts a scowling Dickens-era teacher, switch in hand, reprimanding a young student. The cartoon was chosen by the district’s art studio and approved by Philip George, the district’s information services officer. Two members of George’s staff last week warned him that the cartoon is “inappropriate and archaic.”
Teachers union officials said the cartoon was offensive and demanded an apology.
In a statement distributed at Tuesday’s school board meeting, Payzant agreed and took responsibility for not reviewing the cover before it was distributed.
The initial printing job cost $42,000.
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