Queensland Teacher Who Identified as a Cat No Longer in the Role

Calico cats who have orange and black fur are genetically female. Bianca Grueneberg/Shutterstock

A Queensland state school has responded following reports a teacher took on the “persona” of a cat.

Parents had taken to social media and lodged complaints with Marsden State High School in Brisbane’s south amid reports from students that a teacher, who asked to be addressed as “Miss Purr,” began behaving like a feline.

The teacher was photographed wearing fake cat ears in class, and a name tag on a lanyard with the word, “Purr.”

Parents also reported other concerning behaviours with the teacher allegedly licking their hands during class, and hissing and growling, according to The Courier Mail.

A spokesperson for Queensland’s Department of Education told The Epoch Times the school was aware of the matter.

“The school is aware of parents’ concerns and the principal addressed the issue directly with the teacher as soon as they became aware,” the spokesperson said.

“Teachers are held to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.

“This behaviour is not acceptable in Queensland state schools.”

The Epoch Times understands the teacher known as “Miss Purr” is no longer in any state teaching role.

It is not known if any disciplinary action was taken due to confidentiality rules.

Cats in the Classroom

The “furry” trend has expanded widely in recent years, fueled by social media apps like the Chinese-owned TikTok.

Furries take on what they call a “fursona,” where they dress either in a full “fursuit” or accessories such as clip-on ears or tails.

They also take on animal-like characteristics.

In 2022, it was widely reported that a student at a Melbourne private school had identified as a cat and was being allowed to do so as it did not interfere with other students’ studies. Regular reports of students identifying as animals have also emerged across the country and world.

Underlying Reasons

Psychiatrist Jillian Spencer told The Epoch Times people who had alternative identities did so because they feel they do not fit in.

“They haven’t yet managed to achieve a sense of belonging and look to find an explanation as to why,” she said.

“They might have a touch of autism driving their sense of being different to others.

“Autism can make relating to other humans hard and therefore make a connection with animals feel precious.”

Spencer said there was a lot of information online that encouraged people to think about their identity, including whether they might feel more like an animal.

“There is a celebration of being different and special in that way,” she said.

“It can be an expression of creativity and fun, but it is a private activity and should not be permitted in the classroom or around children.”

Spencer said animal personas were confusing for children and can affect them when they’re at an age of learning about reality.