Teacher suspended over showing of 'The Passion'

WASHINGTON -- An elementary school teacher was suspended this week after school officials learned that he showed students excerpts from the movie "The Passion of the Christ." Ronald Anthony, who teaches at Malcolm X Elementary School, was placed on paid leave while investigators look into the incident, Elfreda Massie, the interim superintendent for District of Columbia Public Schools, said Friday. Massie said Anthony acknowledged showing some of his sixth-grade students portions of the R-rated film on Tuesday. The movie depicts the crucifixion of Jesus and includes violent scenes. At least 16 students are believed to have seen portions of the film, Massie told The Associated Press.

School officials learned of the incident when a parent complained, Massie said.

The school sent a note to parents Wednesday, saying the film shouldn't have been shown and that the teacher believed it connected historical events from the students' social studies book.

Massie said Anthony "used poor judgment" and should have relied on more appropriate materials to for the lesson.

Attempts to reach Anthony for comment were unsuccessful.

School officials also said they are looking into how Anthony obtained a copy of the film, which has not been released on video.

The Mel Gibson film has drawn criticism from Jewish leaders who fear it will lead to anti-Jewish sentiment, while winning praise from some Christians for its portrayal of Christ.

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On the Net:

D.C. Public Schools: http://www.k12.dc.us/dcps/home.html