Arkansas teacher resigns after calling Michelle Obama ‘First Chimp’ in post
Trent Bennett, the Arkansas high school teacher who referred to Barack and Michelle Obama as monkeys, has resigned.
Trent Bennett, the Arkansas high school teacher who stirred up controversy on Facebook after referring to Barack and Michelle Obama as monkeys, has resigned.
The school board for the Malvern School District unanimously voted to accept Bennett’s resignation.
–Arkansas teacher calls Michelle Obama ‘First Chimp’ in Facebook post–
Bennett also issued a public apology for his actions, saying:
I would like to issue an apology for the outrage and hurt feelings caused by these comments. I acknowledge that they were disrespectful and offensive. I am aware of the impact this has had, and though I negate that I have ever conducted myself in a less than professional manner in regard to my students, I have resigned my teaching position at Malvern High School. I have also removed my social media presence to prevent any future issues. I am unavailable for further statements or interviews, and humbly ask for everyone to respect the privacy of my family, friends, and former colleagues.
Bennett’s original Facebook post referred to the First Lady as “Michelle Obummer … America’s First Chimp.”
The school district responded on Facebook saying that the comments were “inappropriate,” “insensitive” and “in now way are the posts reflective of the district” and stated that they would be launching an investigation.
