San Francisco High School Teacher Investigated for Alleged 'Fat-Shaming' Quiz

Lowell High School educator under scrutiny for inappropriate questions on classroom exams

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A teacher at Lowell High School in San Francisco is under investigation following reports that their classroom quizzes contained inappropriate questions, including alleged sexist and 'fat-shaming' language. The San Francisco Unified School District is actively investigating the matter and says it takes these concerns seriously, though the educator's identity has not been released.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about the school climate at one of San Francisco's top-performing public high schools, with questions about whether all students feel safe, supported, and respected in the classroom. It also highlights the need for strong oversight and accountability measures around teacher conduct and curriculum content.

The details

According to reports, the teacher gave quizzes to ninth-grade Algebra I students that included problems centered on how much to spend on a date based on the student's weight, as well as a question about the height of a 'fat kid' the teacher allegedly punted into the air. The school district is investigating the allegations and says there are multiple ways for students and families to report issues, including an anonymous reporting system.

  • The alleged incidents occurred in the teacher's ninth-grade Algebra I classes.

The players

San Francisco Unified School District

The public school district that oversees Lowell High School and is investigating the allegations against the teacher.

Lowell High School

A top-performing public high school in San Francisco that requires students to apply for admission.

Laura Dudnick

A spokesperson for the San Francisco Unified School District.

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What they’re saying

“We take these concerns seriously and are actively investigating.”

— Laura Dudnick, Spokesperson, San Francisco Unified School District

“Lowell remains committed to fostering a welcoming, responsive school community where every student feels comfortable coming forward.”

— Laura Dudnick, Spokesperson, San Francisco Unified School District

What’s next

The school district says it will take appropriate corrective action if required once the investigation is complete.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for rigorous oversight and accountability measures to ensure all students feel safe, supported, and respected in the classroom, even at high-performing schools like Lowell High. Educators must be held to the highest standards of professional conduct.