Board Votes To Keep Jenks Teacher

How close can an eighth grade teacher get to her students? That was the question Jenks school board members had to answer Friday night. <br><br>The Superintendent asked the board to fire eighth grade

Saturday, April 22nd 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

How close can an eighth grade teacher get to her students? That was the question Jenks school board members had to answer Friday night.

The Superintendent asked the board to fire eighth grade teacher Dawn Warriner because of complaints she was too friendly with students. But, after ten hours of testimony, board members said they want to keep Warriner because she's connecting with her students.

Jenks 8th grade language arts teacher Dawn Warriner says she's sometimes like one of the kids.

"Open up the lines of communication. Keep the connection. It is very important, especially with these kids, these kids are worth it," says Warriner.

Warriner says in this day and age, connecting with kids is essential. That's why she didn't back down after three of her fellow teachers filed several complaints against her complaints such as hugging and tickling students, and playing with their hair. Jenks superintendent Kirby Lehman said Warriner wasn't a good role model because she was too playful. But for the first time Lehman can recall in ten years, the school board unanimously voted against his recommendation not to rehire a teacher for the next year.

Members say they're looking out for what's best for the students. About 75 students, many wearing T-shirts supporting Warriner, sat through two days and ten hours of testimony.

"She is worth it. She is like the ideal teacher. If all teachers were like her, there would be no drugs, no gangs. She is the perfect teacher," says student.

None of the complaints against Warriner came from parents.

"We want them loved, we want them hugged, we want them cared for," says Parent Toni Myers.

Superintendent Lehman says they'll work through the disagreements because it's what the kids need.

"What we have to do is work this situation through, to benefit the kids, so they are learning and all their opportunities are not short changed," says Kirby.

"You just have to be gracious and move forward. We can do that, we are adults and professionals. That is the example we will set," says Warriner.

Warriner admits sometimes she lets her guard down and says she will work at always being a positive role model. And she says she will keep connecting with kids the best way she knows how. With the decision Friday night, this means Warriner will have a contract for next year. The decision last night means Warriner has a contract for next year.