Recent events in the Northshore School District have uncovered a painful reality: an epidemic of racism, intolerance and bullying in our schools.
During the May 26 School Board meeting parents, students and community members came forward to share their experiences and address their concerns and fears. It was heartbreaking to hear the racially motivated attacks some of our children have endured. No child should ever feel afraid to go to school. No family should ever feel that staff and administrators are not listening to their pleas for help.
The community has called on the School Board and the Superintendent to take immediate action to change the climate and culture of our schools; to create an environment where students feel safe and valued. I believe this has been a wake-up call; one to which the District is now responding.
Superintendent Francois recently issued a letter to our community. I believe it is a heartfelt response to a deeply distressing situation. In his letter he details the first steps the District will be taking to address the issue of racism, intolerance and bullying in our schools. It is a multi-layered approach that includes working with our community, providing cultural competency, diversity and equity training for staff and administration, reinstating a mechanism through which confidential reporting can be made, and continuing to support schools in implementing Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS).
Superintendent Francois has called on all students, parents, staff and community members to help move our school community forward to a better, safer place. I echo Superintendent Francois’ belief that together we can make a positive difference in our schools and in our community. I believe Northshore can become a place where all children feel safe and valued. Where parents are treated with respect, and are considered as partners in their child’s educational experience. Where teachers and support staff are treated with dignity; A place that is more “family” than “institution;” A place where our administrators and our school board directors listen and care.
The school district is taking the first steps in a long, but worthwhile journey. I think we can all be a positive part of the process and join the District in moving forward.
Berta Phillips, Bothell
