California Math Teacher is Under Investigation for Making Test Questions About the Financial Cost of Dating Overweight Girls

A California math teacher has been placed under investigation after allegedly giving students a test question that linked the cost of dating to how much a girl weighs, sparking outrage among parents and school officials.

The controversial problem, which reportedly appeared on a 9th-grade Algebra 1 exam, asked students to calculate the “financial cost” of a date based on a girl's weight.

According to a copy circulating online, the question read:

“The amount of money you spend on a date varies inversely to how much they weigh. A typical girl that weighs 120 lbs will cost you $55.”

Students were then asked to:

Derive the variation equation.

Calculate how much a date would cost with “Ashley,” who weighs 220 pounds.

Determine how much a date would weigh — and even give the person a name — if the student could only afford to spend $5.

The exam has drawn sharp criticism after screenshots of the question began spreading on social media, with many accusing the assignment of promoting body-shaming and inappropriate stereotypes.

The teacher at the center of the controversy, identified as Tom Chan, works at a high school in San Francisco. Officials say he has now been placed on leave while the matter is reviewed.

In a brief statement, the school district confirmed it is “actively investigating” the allegations surrounding the test question.

“We take concerns about classroom materials seriously and are looking into the situation,” a district spokesperson said.

It remains unclear whether the question actually appeared on a graded exam or how long it may have been used before complaints surfaced.

Parents and community members have reacted with disbelief, with some demanding disciplinary action while others argue the situation may have been intended as humor that crossed the line.

The investigation is ongoing.