An elementary school teacher that was removed from the classroom due to an article in which she discussed her former pupil, Stephen Miller, has returned to teaching this week.
Nikki Fiske, a 30-year teacher at Franklin Elementary, was placed on “home assignment” last week after her story appeared in the Hollywood Reporter. The piece was published on Oct. 10 and is attributed to Fiske “as told by Benjamin Svetkey.” Svetkey is a writer and editor at the publication.
In the story, Fiske described Miller as an isolated loner who kept a disorganized desk and ate dried glue. She said she had a lot of concerns about Miller but her feedback to his parents was so shocking, the principal at the time redacted her comments from his school records.
After the story published, Fiske was put on paid leave while officials investigated her comments to see if there were any violations of district policies or professional standards.
That review concluded recently with Fiske returning to teaching.
“Franklin Elementary School teacher, Ms. Nikki Fiske, has returned to her classroom assignment,” said Gail Pinsker SMMUSD Community & Public Relations Officer. “We have conducted a thoughtful review and we have addressed the matter with the teacher.
We are unable to provide any additional comments as this is a personnel issue.”
Miller has become a controversial figure on the national stage for his work with the Trump administration. He is credited as the architect of Trump’s immigration policies, including separating families at the border and the juxtaposition of his current views with his Santa Monica upbringing has been the subject of much review.
Miller grew up in Santa Monica where he earned a reputation for opposing the liberal values often associated with the city. His political activity shifted into high gear at Santa Monica High School including written work, call-ins to conservative talk radio and public disputes with administrators.
His activity increased through his time at Duke University and he eventually worked for Representative Michelle Bachmann and Senator Jeff Sessions before joining the Trump administration.
