Your Opinion: JCPS needs to take action after racist photo

Dear Editor:

It has come to the attention of residents of Jefferson City, as well as area cities, of the recent posting on social media of students from the JCHS unabashedly sharing a picture of themselves with incendiary racist words and symbols.

Many people are sharing their disbelief, anger, disappointment or sadly, lack of surprise. Discussions of what form of punishment is appropriate abound. But a more important discussion is how this school district's administrators will address the larger issue of racism and bigotry in the schools.

This incident highlights the importance of diversity and sensitivity teachings to all students, K-12. If this incident is merely dismissed as "kids being kids" or believing that "it was a joke," then the administration is missing an opportunity to address a growing and very real issue that has existed and continues to exist in the community.

It is vital that the district incorporate diversity training into the curriculum for teachers, staff and students. Such programs will foster open and honest conversations and help students understand racism, diversity and the need for cultural change. If this is swept under the rug, nothing will change. And we need change.

I won't presume to know what diversity training exists within the JCPS organization. I do know that diversity training exists at the University of Missouri (called Citizenship Too), because I, and many of my colleagues, have attended it. I'm also aware that Columbia Public School teachers and staff have also attended this training. I encourage a proactive response to send a message to the students and community that racism and bigotry will not be tolerated. While these acts and social media posts might be seen as minor, they are not. These students have negatively targeted others (whether intentionally or not) and have potentially put themselves in harm's way. These types of acts are serious and should be treated as such.

I understand that the students who are involved in this photo will suffer consequences for their actions but will then grow up and move on with their lives. The bigger picture here is that these actions, if not addressed with the severity and seriousness they deserve, will continue and our already divisive community will become more divided.

The Jefferson City Public School district needs to take the appropriate action. The students, the community, and the public are watching.

 

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