NY School District Fires Substitute Teacher Over Racist Remark

Incident at Richard O'Rourke Middle School prompts swift investigation and termination.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A substitute teacher in upstate New York was fired after making a racially insensitive comment to a Black eighth-grade student during a class. The Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Central School District launched an investigation after the incident was captured on video and immediately removed the substitute teacher from the district's roster.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing expectations for schools to swiftly address and take action against any incidents of racism or discrimination in the classroom. The district's rapid response underscores the seriousness with which such issues are now being treated in educational settings.

The details

The remark, 'Maintain your cotton-picking hands to yourself,' was audible in the background of a student's video journal being recorded for a class assignment. After becoming aware of the video on February 10, the district launched an investigation and had removed the substitute teacher from the district's substitute teacher roster by February 12.

  • The incident occurred on February 10 at Richard O'Rourke Middle School.
  • The district launched an investigation on February 10 after becoming aware of the video.
  • The substitute teacher was removed from the district's roster on February 12.

The players

Richard O'Rourke Middle School

A middle school located in Burnt Hills, New York, within the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Central School District.

Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Central School District

The school district that oversees Richard O'Rourke Middle School and took swift action to investigate and terminate the substitute teacher after the racist incident.

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What they’re saying

“Upon learning of the situation, district staff immediately launched an investigation. Based on our findings, the substitute teacher was immediately removed from the district's substitute teacher roster.”

— District Spokesperson (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The district stated it will continue to ensure a respectful and safe environment for all students, and will not tolerate any racist comments or actions.

The takeaway

This case underscores the heightened expectations for schools to swiftly address and take firm action against any incidents of racism or discrimination in the classroom, reflecting a broader societal commitment to fostering truly inclusive learning environments.