Marquise White, known online as “Thilluminator,” became a viral sensation after posting a TT video showing his female students helping him take down his braids in the classroom. The video sparked heated debates about appropriateness and professionalism. While some criticized him, others defended his unconventional teaching style. The modern Teacher faced backlash, but he believes that his looks…being a young, handsome Black man…played a significant role in the public outrage. He argued that people projected their

own thoughts and experiences onto him and his students due to his attractive energy and aura. Despite the rumors of immediate termination, White clarified that he was reassigned pending an investigation and still has his job at Maya Angelou French Immersion School in Hillcrest Heights. Mr. White has been cleared to return to the classroom this fall. His unique teaching methods and the controversy surrounding them have certainly left an indelible mark on the education landscape.