Dear Parents/Caregivers,
I am reaching out today to ask for help in keeping our school safe. Over the last two months, there has been a significant increase of hurtful and racialized comments made by students toward other students. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. It is important that all students feel safe, feel that they belong and feel valued. This is an integral part of the HSD Respect for Human Diversity policy.
The student body at Clearspring Middle School is becoming increasingly culturally diverse. Unfortunately, however, we are also seeing an alarming increase in overt and covert racism. Students are hearing the “N” word more and more; students are being subjected to blatant racist remarks (name calling and references) and students are hearing constant quips and micro-aggressions that are veiled as “just a joke.” We have been addressing each incident with education and consequences, however the issue is continuing with incidents in every grade level. We have students, on a regular basis, who are crushed and are feeling like they don’t have a place in our building. We have families who are hurt and angry that their child(ren) are being subjected to this.
Comments that include reference to skin colour and prejudicial stereotypes have no place in our school.
We have heard from some students that these types of comments or ideas are being viewed on the internet sites they visit, songs they listen to, or in social media comments they are reading. We are asking that parents partner with us by having conversations with their children about any types of these things they may have been exposed to and the harmful effects of racism. All of our children deserve to be treated with respect and kindness.
Please note that students who make racialized comments (whether it is directed at another student or just a general comment) will have consequences including possible suspension from school. There is no place for this type of behaviour in our school.
Our CMS staff will continue to work deliberately to address any issues affecting the safety of our students including incidents of racism, bullying and other harmful actions and to teach students about racism, kindness and caring for others. Education is an important part of building an understanding of how our words and actions impact others in both positive and negative ways.
In my years of working with the CMS community, I know that we have a community that pulls together to help each other out. I am constantly reminded that this community cares. I am hoping that we can now pull together to eliminate this serious issue in our school. I ask that we all, once again, show how kind, caring and generous we can be.
Merrilee Plett
in: General