Michael Holbrook suspended over insensitive topless sailor posters

A teacher in Delta, B.C., has been disciplined for using classroom computers and printersto create insensitive posters that he then distributedin the lead up to a day intended to educate students about LGBTissues.

TheB.C.Commissionerfor Teacher Regulation saysMichael James Holbrookadmitted to superimposing the face of a male colleague on a photographof two topless men dressed as sailors. A caption on the poster said the school's name followed by "LGBT."

The commission saysat least eight copies of the poster were distributed by Holbrookaround school where students and staff could see them.

The incident happened last April just before the school held a"Rainbow Day" celebration a day dedicated to educating students and staff about issues that affect lesbian, gay, bisexual, andtransgender people.

As a result, Holbrook received a five-day suspension and was ordered to attend a trainingprogram on bullying in the workplace. He has since completed both and is now back teaching in the classroom.

The Delta School District says it takes all matters relating to professional conduct seriously.