PANAMA CITY, Fla. — (WJHG/CNN) - A teacher in the Florida Panhandle didn't give her student an "F". Instead, she wrote “WTF” on a paper to signal he would be getting a zero.
The student's mom, Melinda Smith, says she was shocked when her son handed her his science homework, which said "WTF is this?" written across the top.
"Just seeing 'WTF' what is this? You know, basically is this: there's no credit. It wasn't anything about not getting the credit. It was more so the language about what they're writing to students. That was very inappropriate and not acceptable for a teacher whatsoever," said Smith.
Now, she's calling for the teacher at Rutherford High School in Bay County to account for her actions.
"I think for sure she needs to be reprimanded. I believe that something should be placed in her file," said Smith.
The teacher in question has not responded publicly to the situation.
Rutherford High School principal Coy Pilson says they are taking the necessary steps to deal with the incident, and does not want to release the teacher's name at this time.
"I notified district officials and our HR has been involved, and they're currently investigating the situation," said Pilson.
He says he has spoken with the teacher regarding appropriate classroom conduct.
"She was apologetic, and it was a mistake on her part," said Pilson.
The principal says he wants the community to know one thing about his high school.
"All of the teachers at Rutherford High School are caring, loving teachers, and we're also human, and so we make mistakes. But we understand that we are called to a high professional standard, and when we make mistakes, we try to correct those mistakes and move forward," said Pilson.
It's unclear if any action will be taken against the teacher at this time.
