Prosser teacher back in the classroom after controversy

A Prosser teacher who was put on administrative leave after a controversy arose about her Facebook post, commenting on the Day Without Immigrants Boycott, has returned to the classroom Thursday.

Cheriese Rhode was put on leave after the Prosser School District Superintendent Ray Tolcacher says there were several creditable threats over the post and they did not feel it was safe for her to come to class. Reportedly, Rhodes wrote on her personal Facebook page urging people to call immigration agents to report suspected illegal residents.

Peggy Brown, a second employee who is the assistant librarian, remains on leave after posting her own set of comments after the boycott. Brown reportedly defended Rhodes on her personal Facebook and then posted her own comments about the immigrants day protest.

Superintendent Tolcacher said he would not discuss if any disciplinary actions were taken against Rhodes because it is a personnel issue. He wrote in a letter sent out to the school last week addressing several questions about immigration policies at the school, "Prosser schools are committed to equity, understanding and respect for each and everyone of our students."