Senior teacher banned, fined $32,500 for belittling students

An Alberta teacher lost her right to teach Monday after being found guilty of humiliating and disdainful conduct toward her students.

Frieda Anne Mennes, 65, also faces $32,500 in fines for unprofessional conduct toward students, staff and parents over a period dating back to 1981.

Testimony during the Edmonton-based Alberta Teachers’ Association hearing said her conduct was so hurtful, children developed physical symptoms of distress. Some complained of stomach aches, headaches and cried each school day morning.

She was found guilty last Friday on eight counts. On Monday, the hearing assigned the fine. Six of the charges also carry the teaching ban and one includes a letter of severe reprimand. Mennes loses the right to be a member of the Alberta Teachers’ Association, a requirement for teaching in public, Catholic and francophone schools.

The association is also recommending the provincial minister of education cancel her certification. A written report on the hearing and decision is expected in 60 days.

Mennes taught in several Grasslands schools, which are based in Brooks, but spent most of her career in Bassano, a community 140 kilometres east of Calgary.