A teacher in Poland is at the center of a controversy after allegedly throwing a student’s cross into the trash during an English lesson on December 15, 2025. The incident has sparked outrage and a debate about religious freedom and respect in schools.
Teacher Suspended After Alleged Discard of Religious Symbol
The school principal temporarily removed the teacher from her duties pending a full investigation into the claims.
- Ryszard Kalkowski, the mayor of the Szemud commune, reported the incident to the District Prosecutor’s Office in Wejherowo.
- Archbishop Tadeusz Wojda of Gdańsk has requested a thorough explanation of the events.
- The teacher claims the item was a “toy” used for a Halloween costume, not a religious object.
- A disciplinary commission has since withdrawn the teacher’s suspension.
The alleged incident unfolded during an English class at the Primary School in Kielno. According to reports, the teacher asked students to remove any crosses they were wearing, and when one student refused, she reportedly took the cross and discarded it in a waste bin. This action prompted a swift response from local authorities and religious leaders.
Mayor Kalkowski immediately notified the District Prosecutor’s Office in Wejherowo, initiating a formal inquiry into the matter. Archbishop Wojda expressed his concern and called for a comprehensive explanation from the school’s governing body. In response to the allegations, the school principal initially suspended the teacher from her duties, pending further investigation.
However, the situation took an unexpected turn. According to Radio ZET, the disciplinary commission for teachers at the Pomeranian Voivodeship accepted the teacher’s appeal and withdrew the suspension decision on Wednesday.
In an interview with TVN24, the teacher offered a different account of the events. She stated that the object she removed was not a symbol of religious worship, but rather a “toy” used as part of a Halloween costume. — I would never in my life throw something into the trash that is an object of worship for another person – she argued.
The case has also drawn comment from Minister of Education, Barbara Nowacka. Speaking on TVN24, Nowacka emphasized the importance of respecting religious beliefs. — Regardless of what anyone believes in, everyone has the right to respect the dignity of their faith. This seems fundamental to me and teachers know it very well. They have an obligation to show children values and care for values and respect, she said. She added that, “regardless of whether we believe or not, we know that the cross is an important symbol and the feelings of the majority and minorities must be respected.” Disciplinary proceedings against the teacher have been initiated.
What is the significance of a cross to many people? The cross is a central symbol of Christianity, representing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and, for many, embodying faith, hope, and redemption.
The incident continues to generate discussion about the boundaries of acceptable behavior in schools and the importance of cultural sensitivity. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the case progresses.
