My VP wrote a letter to the superintendent and gave a copy to our principal. She strongly suggested that the entire staff go for more diversity training.
I think we are satisfied with the outcome. Our principal does take us very seriously. he knows he is lucky to have us because we work so hard. His previous board dumped stuff on him and his office staff. So he does listen to us and tell us what is going on. We explained to him that actions like this make it even more difficult to get parent volunteers-that got his attention!
We know we did what was right for the kids. That is what is important. And we would do it again.
As the victim of the incident, your VP has a right to know what action has been taken. It would be very easy for the principal to sit the offending party down, tell them to watch what they say around you now that you've shown yourself to be uppity, and then everybody smiles and says it has been dealt with. If your VP is not satisified with the resolution, they have a right to take it to the next level.
Those who "just want everybody to get along" will continue to wonder why you are "making a big deal out of nothing." Understand that some people will never understand. I am middle-class, white, protestant -- I can never really know what it feels like for a minority to be described in demeaning language. But even if I can't feel the pain, I can understand and appreciate it.
Stand firm. Fighting intolerance may seem overwhelming. Just remember -- do you know how you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.
Yes, Please send me the info on these groups. I work for an organization that runs parenting classes and teaches character education. I am sure we can use info like this. Thanks!
You are so welcome!
One thing that our State has done is to encourage the formation of Civil Rights Teams. Most are in Middle and High Schools (over 200!) but we have piloted a few in elementary schools. The students get training in how to respond to hateful language and bullying behavior, as well as exposure to other cultures etc., and then they decide what will be effective to raise awareness in their schoos and communities. It's often true that "a child shall lead them." Especially if that child is empowered to do so. These teams are supported by our State's Attorney General with training and resources, and is part of an effort to reduce hate crimes. If you'd like to know more I'd be happy to e-mail.
Keep up the good work! and keep on speaking up!
Thanks so much for those great words of encouragement. I forwarded them to my VP. We really need and appreciate the support of other active parent leaders. You have made us feel better.
I hope that we can use this situation to open a few eyes. Maybe we all do need to examine the way we look at other cultures and the way we treat people, especially in the presence of our kids.
