Full Breakdown
Controversy Erupts Over Inappropriate Test Questions at Lowell High School
3/5/2026, 2:16:07 AM
Allegations Against Tom Chan
Tom Chan, a math teacher at Lowell High School in San Francisco, has been placed on administrative leave following allegations of including inappropriate and offensive questions in student quizzes. Chan, who has taught at the school for 20 years, reportedly included questions that referenced body shaming and misogynistic stereotypes. One such question suggested that the amount of money spent on a date inversely correlates with a girl's weight, prompting outrage among parents and students alike.
Content of the Controversial Quizzes
Parents have expressed concern over the nature of the quiz questions, which they claim perpetuate harmful stereotypes. For instance, one question asked students to calculate how much they would pay for a date based on a girl's weight, while another questioned students directly about their height and weight. Additionally, some questions lacked any mathematical relevance, such as asking students to choose between being "Pretty or Smart" and explain their reasoning.
Chan's teaching methods have also come under scrutiny due to his YouTube videos aimed at making math engaging. One video, titled "Grades vs. Dignity," featured students performing silly dances for extra credit, which some parents found troubling. An alum of the school noted that while the quiz language was offensive, the YouTube content was more benign and part of a broader culture at Lowell that encourages fun and stress relief.
Official Responses and Investigations
In response to the allegations, Principal Jan Bautista informed parents of Chan's leave, emphasizing the need for immediate action. The San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) acknowledged the concerns raised and stated that they are actively investigating the matter. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for students, encouraging the use of their "See Something, Say Something" anonymous reporting system for future incidents.
The district's statement highlighted their protocol for addressing such issues: “While we cannot share details because this is a personnel matter, we can share that once an issue is brought to our attention, we investigate every report and take appropriate corrective action if required.”
Criticism and Community Reactions
The incident has sparked significant backlash from parents and community members. Many have expressed disbelief that such content could be included in educational materials, with one parent stating, “It’s pretty shocking... he’s been there a really long time.” The general sentiment among parents is one of concern for the impact of such questions on students' self-esteem and learning environment.
What's Next
As the investigation unfolds, there remains uncertainty regarding Chan's future at Lowell High School. The school district has not disclosed whether Chan's leave is paid or when he might return. The community continues to await further developments as the SFUSD seeks to address the concerns raised by parents and ensure a respectful educational atmosphere.
