Cowichan teachers rebuked

Cowichan Valley teacher Brad Skene has been reprimanded for inappropriate actions with former students, including lying in bed with one.

Skene and his wife, Alanna Skene, who both teach at Cowichan Secondary School, also have been reprimanded for providing alcohol to former students who were underage.

Brad Skene, who teaches physical education, rugby and personal fitness, was reprimanded for his conduct with the 19-year-old woman, who had played on a sports team he coached.

The incident happened in February 2010, about two years after the student graduated, according to a statement of facts outlined by B.C.’s Commissioner for Teacher Regulation.

Skene, the former student and some others went to the home of another coach after a sports event.

Skene and the woman spent time alone in the hot tub. It was late when they got out, and since they had both been drinking, they decided to stay overnight at the home. They lay down, fully clothed, in the same bed and Skene “spooned” and hugged the woman, his body touching hers, according to the statement of facts.

The woman left the bedroom and walked home. The next day, Skene emailed her to apologize.

Brad Skene and Alanna Skene, who teaches chemistry and forensic science, were also disciplined for providing alcohol to underage former students at their home.

In December 2013, they provided alcohol to ex-students who were underage, according to the statement of facts. In June 2014, they permitted an ex-student who was 18 to drink alcohol provided by her father.

The complaint about the Skenes was made in April 2015. The district found their behaviour violated the Standards for the Education, Competence and Professional Conduct of Educators in B.C.

Letters of discipline were put on their files in May 2015.

The commissioner for teacher regulation considered the matters this May.

In both cases, it was found that the teachers’ behaviour constituted “conduct unbecoming” and violated professional conduct standards for B.C. educators, specifically one that reads in part: “Educators are role models who act ethically and honestly.”

Both teachers agreed to a reprimand. Brad Skene must complete a course called “reinforcing professional boundaries” through the Justice Institute of B.C.

The couple run the rugby program at Cowichan Secondary School. In 2013, the City of Duncan awarded them a trophy for excellence and sportsmanship.

Brad Skene coached the University of Victoria Vikes women’s rugby team from 1996 to 1999 and 2001 to 2004. He also coached the Canadian under-19 women’s rugby team in 2004 and 2005 and was the assistant coach for the senior national team in 2005 and 2006.