Racial harassment at a metro high school has a principal urging parents for help.
Since the presidential election, Olathe North High School Principal Jason Herman said "several incidents" have occurred in which students were harassed because of their race/ethnicity.
The principal not only addressed his students, but also sent a letter home to parents Wednesday regarding the "concerning behavior."
In the letter, Herman urged parents to speak with their children about the "intolerance for any type of harassment." The principal noted how there's been a significant amount of inaccurate social media traffic that's been creating challenges. While he didn't go into detail regarding the discrimination, he did acknowledge such behavior is in violation of the Student Code of Conduct and would be handled "swiftly" by administration.
One parent 41 Action News spoke with was thrilled the principal has been so proactive.
"We don't want anyone to discriminate anyone, for religion or anything, race, so that's good. We encourage that. And we give five stars for the principal for that," said Omuma Madhira, whose son attends Olathe North.
Below is Herman's transcript from his address to the student body.
41 Action News requested an interview with Herman and the school district. The district sent a statement that reads:
The Olathe Public Schools supports and values the message sent from Principal Herman on Wednesday. This message is consistent with our student, staff and parent guiding principles of respect for all. While the administration at North will continue to investigate and address any code of conduct violations, we recognize the responsibility we have to guide our school communities and reflect on our core values of respect and inclusion.
We work actively with all students and staff to provide an inclusive learning community where everyone who walks through the doors of the Olathe Public Schools feels safe, cared for, respected and affirmed.
According to a national survey by the Southern Poverty Law Center, 90 percent of teachers said that the school climate has been negatively affected since the election.
Herman’s letter to parents can be read in its entirety below:
Olathe North Families-
I wanted to make you aware of some very concerning behavior recently occurring at North. We have had several incidents in which students were harassed based on their race and/or ethnicity. This behavior is intolerable and will be handled swiftly by the staff and administration based on our Student Code of Conduct. I have attached below the announcement that I personally read to the entire students body this afternoon.
I ask that you please speak to your child tonight about the importance of respecting everyone and our intolerance for any type of harassment. It is also important that students report any concerns immediately to an adult so that inappropriate behavior may be swiftly addressed and safety ensured.
There has also been a significant amount of social media traffic that is inaccurate and is causing increased challenges. Your support in this area would also be greatly appreciated.
ONHS has a proud tradition of a diverse population where everyone belongs. We will continue to ensure that all students feel safe and are treated with respect…it is the Eagle way and it is our expectation for all. Please assist us in having a follow-up conversation with your children.
Thank you-
Jason Herman
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Josh Helmuth can be reached at josh.helmuth@kshb.com
