It’s not necessarily the high school superlative you want to be known for: ‘Teacher’s worst nightmare.’
Two students at Yucca Valley High School in California won the dubious distinction, but it’s the accompanying photos they took that is causing controversy.
–Blackface or Too Much Bronzer? High School Student Blasted Over Yearbook Photo
In one of the photos, a young black student is pictured holding a gun to a textbook alongside a young Hispanic girl with a knife in a similar position.
The girl’s mother, Corinna Gonzales, told local station KESQ & CBS Local 2 it’s a matter of racial profiling.
–Newspaper Shows White Suspects’ Yearbook Pics, Black Suspects’ Mugshots For Same Crimes
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–Teen May Be Banned From Graduation For Clever Science Joke Yearbook
According to KESQ & CBS Local 2, another photo shows “two students lighting a prop that is made to look like a bomb.” The latter photo was supposed to represent the students who received the “Rule the World” superlative.
The teacher in charge of the school’s yearbook reportedly made the suggestions for the photos to include the specific props.
Superintendent Tom Baumgarten told KESQ & CBS Local 2 the matter has already been addressed.
“We have talked to the advisor. There was no malicious intent by the advisor, the students, the administration, or the district to portray anybody in a negative manor. We apologize if it did.”
There is reportedly no plan to reprint or recall the school’s yearbooks.