CHS Administrative response to recent racial incident

Dear Parents and Guardians,

A video from Instagram was presented to the CHS Administrative Team on Monday afternoon that contained a student saying a racial slur.  The CHS Harassment Policy was utilized to develop a corrective action plan.  The CHS Administrative Team also consulted with the School District of Philadelphia’s Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities. The issue is being addressed with the parties involved through a meeting with administration and a restorative circle led by Dr. Christine Soda, CHS Lead Counselor. A number of student leaders will participate to share their points of view.  It is critical for students to learn that the use of a racial slur is damaging to our school community and this needs to be repaired.

The CHS Administrative Team has fully investigated this incident and will continue to utilize the CHS Harassment Policy when necessary.  Our goal is to create a culturally-inclusive learning environment for all of our students.  If your child has any issue I ask you to direct them to the CHS Administrative Team.  We all have an open-door policy for our students.  We are here to support them.

Please be mindful that we do not share details related to student disciplinary consequences because of privacy laws.  There are many rumors being circulated throughout our school surrounding the details of this incident.  The fact remains that the CHS Administrative Team and Faculty strongly condemn the use of any harassing language or acts related to race, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, and/or personal appearance.

Sincerely,

Timothy J. McKenna

President of Central High School