Mesa Public Schools said it is looking into the incident.

On Tuesday, the teacher told 12News they dressed up that way for Halloween spirit week. The teacher explained that the theme was “dynamic duos” and that a teacher next door dressed as an angel.

“Participating in spirit weeks is a way for me to connect with my students and make class fun,” the teacher said. “It’s honestly nothing more than that.”

However, Hamlet said he felt insulted by the costume due to his religious beliefs.

“I said, ‘Don’t do that to me,’ and I pushed [the pitchfork] away maybe three or four times, but he kept doing it,” Hamlet said.

Nathaniel then told his father, Chris Hamlet, a former Mesa school board candidate, about what happened. Chris said he reported it to the school’s principal.

“I was really upset because I’m a Christian too,” Chris Hamlet said. “The main issue for me is, the teacher kept doing it even when my son asked him to stop.”

The next day, Nathaniel said the teacher was not in class and hasn’t returned since. Mesa Public Schools said the teacher is now on paid administrative leave.

A spokesperson for Mesa Public Schools gave 12News a statement on the incident:

“Mesa Public Schools administration was notified of the alleged incident late Wednesday afternoon. Our Human Resources department started investigating Thursday morning and put the teacher on paid leave. The investigation is still ongoing.”

Some parents picking up their kids from school on Monday told 12News that while they don’t agree with what the teacher did, they feel that firing him might be too extreme.

Found a strange small “room” in my ancient barn’s top

Historically, barn owls played a crucial role in rural farming life, particularly in pest control.

Farmers believed barn owls were highly effective at keeping pests in check, prompting them to construct nest boxes within their barns. This practice, rooted in traditional farming wisdom and environmental awareness, showcased farmers’ deep respect for the natural balance.

Nest boxes were often fashioned from readily available materials like wood and straw, ensuring they provided adequate ventilation and drainage for the owls’ comfort and safety. Placed strategically in barn lofts, rafters, and quiet corners, these nesting spaces harmonized farm activities with the owls’ nesting requirements.

Today, the tradition of building barn owl nest boxes endures as a cherished family practice passed down through generations. It goes beyond mere pest control, symbolizing a commitment to sustainable farming practices and the preservation of agricultural heritage.

This longstanding relationship between humans and the environment highlights our ongoing ability to coexist harmoniously with nature, showcasing a timeless bond that transcends generations