TWIN FALLS, Idaho — A Twin Falls High School teacher and head football coach is suspended for using "inappropriate racial language" during class, according to the Twin Falls School District.
In a statement sent to district parents, TFSD says Ben Kohring, a physical education teacher and head football coach, has been suspended from teaching and coaching until Oct. 19. The district says he will make a public apology to his team and students as well as participate in sensitivity training. A letter of reprimand will also go in his file, according to the district.
Kohring was reported on Sept. 29 for using "inappropriate racial language" during class in the context of a lesson. The district says the language was not directed at any individual. Administration began investigating the claim when it was reported and placed Kohring on administrative leave during the investigation.
"TFSD Policy 5270 states that employees are expected to maintain high standards of honesty, integrity, and impartiality in the conduct of District business and are required to comply and conform to the Idaho law and the Code of Ethics of the Idaho Teaching Profession," reads a statement from TFSD. "The District does not condone these comments in any context and will continue to work with educators to ensure that lessons are presented in a professional and inclusive manner."
Kohring has been employed with the district for 14 years and has fully cooperated with the investigation, according to TFSD.
