CHESTERFIELD, Mo. - Last week a message with a racial was found in a bathroom at Parkway Central High School. Superintendent Dr. Keith Marty announced a student admitted to writing the message.
Statement from Superintendent Dr. Keith Marty
As Dr. McCarthy mentions (below), we have concluded the investigation and a student has admitted writing the message. The student responsible is not white, however this does not diminish the hurt it caused or the negative impact it has had on our community. The behavior was wrong and the student will be held accountable for this serious act according to our student discipline policy.
We were all surprised and hurt by this, as it does not represent the values of our schools, students or community. It is important to understand why this happened and why we are often quick to assume who is responsible. Instead, let us use this opportunity to continue to grow as a community to be more peaceful and loving individuals.
E-mail sent to parents from Principal McCarthy
PCH Community,
This email is a follow up to last week’s communication regarding a racially charged message written on a bathroom mirror at school (I shared this message, as well, with students and staff at the end of Academic Lab today via the PA). Our investigation into this incident led to a Central High student admitting to writing the message. The actions of this student are a violation of our discipline code and the student will be held accountable within the parameters of the district’s discipline policy.
In the days and weeks ahead, we will continue our work of supporting the PCH community, especially our students. This incident caused significant harm to and within our school community by provoking feelings of hurt and distrust. The use of the N-word, in the context of the message on the bathroom mirror, provoked feelings of hate, not love. As I stated last week, actions and speech which degrade an individual’s human dignity have no place in school; they have no place at Central High. As we move forward, our efforts will be focused on repairing the harm we have experienced while deepening our sense of community. Understanding, respect and love will continue to be our guideposts. These are the values inherent in any successful and healthy school community; I believe these are the values we share within the PCH community.
As I face challenging situations such as this, I become increasingly present to aspects of my life which bring me strength: the love of family, my conviction that living in community is an answer not a problem, and my belief in the uplifting power of the human spirit. With the Thanksgiving break upon us, I will continue to reflect on the many blessings in my life; serving the PCH community is high on that list. For each of you, I wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving. I hope the break affords you the opportunity “to be with those who help your being.” Thank you for your ongoing patience and support. As always, please reach out to me with questions or concerns.
