Darien middle school teacher suspended for lesson about Hitler

DARIEN – A social studies teacher at Middlesex Middle School was suspended today for a lesson that appeared to have a positive impact on Hitler.

According to multiple sources, in a Holocaust-themed lesson, the veteran teacher instructed students to draw a swastika in their notebooks, showed the class a baby photo of Adolf Hitler and commented on his cute appearance. Students were also asked to write a paragraph outlining reasons why Hitler, the leader of Nazi Germany, may have been good for Germany.

Some of the seventh graders, including one Jewish student, were reportedly visibly upset about the assignment. The parents then complained to the school management about the inappropriateness of the lessons.

The families of all seventh graders on the school’s Blue Team received an email notification from Principal Karolyn Dahlstrom this morning informing them of “some concerns shared with MMS administration regarding a Holocaust lesson.” The email also informed parents that the school was taking the concerns very seriously and was investigating them fully.

Parents were asked to contact us with any questions or concerns regarding their child’s “experience of the classroom.” The administration also offered support services through a school counselor or other trusted adult for each child “should they wish to process this.”

Families have been told that another 7th grade social studies teacher at the school will be replacing the suspended teacher.