With the recent news about former MIHS teacher Curtis Johnston’s alleged relationship with a student, students are grappling with complex feelings towards the once-popular teacher. With his abrupt departure from the school district after 20 years of working at MIHS, students are stunned, especially given his affiliation with Chris Twombley, another well-known MIHS teacher who was recently fired for engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a student.
A common grievance among MIHS students is that the district could have done a better job communicating about the situation. “I feel like they could have addressed the situation and actually talked about it instead of giving a brief overview and then going on about the See Something, Say Something app,” said freshman Myra Tandon, referencing the school’s promotion of its See Something, Say Something program, which has often been evoked as a safeguard against predation. “I think that the students have a right to know as soon as [the information] comes out,” said senior Shelby Conway, adding that “[she felt] like there was a general consensus around the school that he was a creepy teacher.”
Many students were stunned by Johnston’s coincidental timing, which departed immediately after Twombley’s case was released to the public. “I was shocked because [Johnston] was supposed to be my teacher this year,” said junior Milo Recchi. “The school isn’t doing as much as they could and I think they’re definitely hiding some stuff from us. [Although] I think they’re handling it better now, I just wish that they would have done it without all the student pressure.”
Some students noticed Mr. Johnston had a ‘creepy’ demeanor, fostering an unhealthy classroom environment.
“One of my brothers did have him and mentioned multiple times how he seemed a little sexist towards some of the girls,” said freshman Sienna Jones. “I was surprised that the school let it continue.”
“I always had a [weird] feeling about [Johnston], and I wish I would have followed my instinct and kept my distance from him,” said senior Gianna Tubach. “I’m disappointed how [the school district] acted. I think they’ve definitely stepped up, but it was a very avoidable situation.” She added.
Overall, the energy in the school has shifted. Students who were used to staying after school to chat with their favorite teachers now find themselves hesitant to ask for one-on-one help during office hours, put on edge by the disturbing claims against Johnston. “People are following the rules a lot closer,” said junior Grace Monroe. “Students are a lot more aware of how they spend time with teachers and what that looks like.”
Even as the news continues to weigh heavily on students, some acknowledge the district’s ongoing efforts to handle the situation responsibly.
“[The school district has] been put in a tough situation, and they’ve been put on the reactive.” Said junior Ben Lanktree. “I think they’ve been doing the best they can.”
When contacted for comment regarding the student responses, Mr. Johnston declined to respond.
Students seeking support are encouraged to contact R&R counselors Chris Harnish, Caleb Visser, and Kate Howell, located across from the main office.
