A California high school apologized this week for “culturally insensitive” yearbook photos that showed the Spanish teachers wearing ponchos, sombreros and fake mustaches.
The world language teachers at San Pasqual High School in Escondido dressed up in stereotypical clothing from certain countries, NBC San Diego reported.
The French teacher was also reportedly photographed wearing a black beret, sunglasses and pearls.{mosads}
The school district released a statement saying the photos, which were the teachers’ ID photos taken at the beginning of the year, were “culturally insensitive and in poor judgement.”
Principal Martin Casas said that the school prides itself in its “rich history and diversity.”
“It is our intent to use this situation as a tool to remind students, as well as staff, to remember the impacts of their words and actions,” Casas said in a statement. “We are committed to continuing our efforts to ensure all students, families and staff feel welcome and valued.”
Several other high schools have faced yearbook controversies in recent weeks before the summer vacation.
An Illinois high school was forced to spend thousands of dollars to reprint the annual yearbook after it was discovered that several students photographed within had made hand gestures that have been used by prominent white nationalists.