A Melbourne primary school teacher received threats and had to quit his job after telling students that some of the Prophet Muhammad's companions were terrorists.
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The state school teacher's comments triggered a massive backlash in the community, with a Muslim youth centre calling for the Education Department employee to be sacked.
It is understood that police patrolled the teacher's home after threats were posted on social media.
One source said the teacher was afraid to go to the local shopping centre due to the anger in the community.
The teacher made the offensive comments in response to a question from a student about beheadings.
An Education Department spokeswoman said the employee answered a question from a student three months ago that should have been referred to the child's parents because it was of a "religious nature".
"Victorian government schools are secular and the personal religious views of staff should not be discussed in class."
The spokeswoman said that parents had complained to the school, and the principal had dealt with the situation appropriately.
"The staff member did not intend to offend the student's religious beliefs and he agreed that he could have handled the situation in a more appropriate manner."
The spokeswoman said they could not comment on whether police were contacted.
The Department has counselled the employee to prevent a similar situation from occurring, she said.
"The employee now understands he is not to answer questions about his own religious beliefs, but should suggest that students ask their parents questions regarding religious beliefs."
A Facebook post accused the teacher of "teaching evil".
Concerned parents said the teacher should have "stuck to the subject" and had no right to impose his beliefs on students.
Many of the threats were removed from social media following a request from the Department.
Fairfax Media has chosen not to name the school or the teacher, who has moved to a new school.
Earlier this year the Education Department appointed an adviser to work with government and non-government schools to promote racial and religious tolerance and social cohesion.
In February, the Australian Principals Federation told Fairfax Media that schools were grappling with the radicalisation of students and parents.
Principals said they did not feel confident in dealing with the radicalised behaviour of students and parents.
Under a new plan, nominated Education Department staff in regional offices work with a Victoria Police counterpart to provide advice and support to schools.
