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St. Charles D303 Superintendent Dr. Paul Gordon used the most recent board meeting to publicly address what he described as an ongoing pattern of racially offensive language directed at Black, Asian, and Latino students in D303 schools.
The statement was prepared and direct with a request for local families to participate in finding a solution.
Here's what to know:
What's happening: Gordon said some D303 students have been using racially charged and offensive language toward peers. He did not name specific schools or provide numbers. He also referenced "actions" that negatively impact students, though he did not elaborate on the specifics.
What the district has done: About two weeks before the meeting, the district sent a district-wide letter to staff, students, parents, and the broader community to directly call out the behavior. Administrators are now receiving guidance and resources to help them address incidents when they occur.
A call to families: Gordon asked parents and community members to partner with the district in helping students understand why the language is harmful and unacceptable, saying “racially charged, harmful, and offensive language will not be tolerated in our schools, on our buses, on our school grounds, or anywhere within D303."
Community concern: During public comment, a St. Charles resident told the board she's heard reports of both verbal and physical incidents from parents and students. She encouraged the board to ensure disciplinary policies are swift and consistent, saying inconsistency in the past had made students feel like nothing would ever happen.
No board vote or policy change occurred. The superintendent's remarks were informational, and no follow-up discussion from board members was held during the meeting.
"Together, we must continue building schools where every student feels safe, valued, respected, and know they belong,” Gordon said.
Watch the full Board of Education meeting recording.
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