The week following the presidential election was a rollercoaster ride for our schools. The climate and culture of our schools are a reflection of what's going on in society and so the turbulence and emotions surrounding the election found their way into our buildings.
We're not alone. Schools across the nation are addressing a rise in intolerant behaviors related to race, religion, sexuality and gender identity that have increased since the election.
The lowest points here in Duluth included intolerant, hateful speech written on a school bathroom wall and a drawing of the president-elect with a coded threat placed in a school display case. For people who work with children and teens each day, such ugliness was disappointing and left us with heavy hearts.
The response from our community leaders, students and staff was inspiring and uplifting. Just as Duluthians have done with so many other challenges, people came together in a call for unity, inclusiveness and vigilance. Community leaders from both political parties shared their support. Students at Denfeld posted positive messages throughout the school and a student leader created a video with the message, "Take Back Our Walls." Young women at East wore hijabs to show support for a classmate.
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Working together, we continue taking steps to raise awareness and help students and staff respond in a healthy and thoughtful way, facilitating discussions and learning activities in the short and long term and clearly communicating expectations.
As superintendent, I want to be clear that intolerant language, images and behavior have no place in our schools and will result in serious consequences for those involved. We encourage students and families to report bullying behaviors to an adult or through school website reporting forms. We ask that staff and families take time to talk with students about respectful behavior and the negative consequences of intolerance to individuals, our community and nation
At a time when our country is so divided we must be vigilant, work together regardless of political affiliation, and do our best to ensure that every student feels safe, welcome and supported in schools and throughout our community. Thanks to all who are working toward this important goal.
