DCPS: Elementary school students divided into groups by race for ‘discussion;’ staff member used racial slur

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — School officials said that during a “discussion” on discrimination at a D.C. elementary school on Friday, children were divided into groups based on race and a staff member used a racial slur.

A letter sent to Shepherd Elementary School families, that DC Public Schools (DCPS) provided, said that the incident involved the school’s fourth-grade students.

The letter stated that the discussion started after an “isolated racist incident between a few of [the school’s] fourth-grade students.”

“During the discussion, students were inappropriately asked to separate into groups determined by race and a staff member used the unabbreviated N-word,” the letter, sent by Assistant Principal Shamayne Coles, said.

I want to apologize for this unacceptable conversation. Students should never be asked to segregate by race or hear racist terminology used within the safety of our school building.
Conversations around race and identity should be thoughtful, well-prepared, and facilitated by professionals. This incident has been reported to the DC Public Schools (DCPS)
Comprehensive Alternative Resolution & Equity (CARE) Team for review.

Letter from Shepherd Elementary School Assistant Principal Shamayne Coles

The letter stated that DCPS’ Equity Team will be supporting the school. It will also hold a “restorative conversation” with the fourth-graders with the help of a trained facilitator.

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