The mission of the Hazel Wolf K-8 PTSA is to facilitate opportunities for family involvement in the school community, and we work to enhance the learning experience for every child – in a way that fosters whole child wellbeing and success. We recognize the importance of a safe and welcoming school environment for all students, where today we have a concern about racist language being used toward children at our school. We encourage the school to address racial bullying and inequities that exist. We also seek to ensure that any actions taken on this matter, and that involve our children, are done in a developmentally appropriate way. As a PTSA, we continue to keep students and their wellbeing at the center of our efforts.
Our understanding of the peaceful protest that took place on Friday, October 25th in front of the school was that it was meant to give a voice to our students’ experiences with racism and how hurtful language should not, and does not, have a place at our school. The PTSA board of directors and members did not have oversight of the way the protest was conducted, though we were informed the day before – as was the school administration. What was at stake here as we understood it – addressing racism at school – was and is a shared priority by all. PTSA President Adrienne Kortas, along with Principal Debbie Nelsen, voiced support to the PTSA Board and school staff for the student-centered demonstration and offered our communication channels to help get the word out to the community as quickly as possible.
We have learned a lot from this experience, including how parents and families need to be informed about and involved in things that concern the safety and wellbeing of our children. We are committed to improving our communication about this work while continuing to move forward within established processes for our Hazel Wolf K-8 PTSA.
We also know our work is just beginning. At the start of this school year, the PTSA Board agreed that increasing racial equity was a key area of focus for us, and we know this to be true for the school as well. We all seek to move in the same direction and effect change. Together, we will lead the way in our school district for implementing key policies that dismantle racism and increase equity. Together, we will do hard, messy, and uncomfortable work. And we will do it all for our kids.
Sincerely,
The Hazel Wolf K-8 PTSA Board
