On Thursday, June 4, Superintendent Dr. Eric Twadell and Principal Troy Gobble sent the following email to all SHS families:
Dear Parents, Guardians and Students,
Yesterday we were made aware of a video showing an incident between a group of students and a Stevenson High School dean. The Stevenson dean is currently on administrative leave pending an investigation into the incident. At Stevenson High School we expect all of our professional educators to be respectful, appropriate and professional in their interactions with students.
Our work around equity, race, and diversity continues to be focused on building awareness and how to confront acts of racism personally, immediately and locally. Stevenson is not indifferent when we see the dignity of individuals and communities threatened--whether it is through a violent conflict, subtle discrimination, overt neglect of rights, or through words of hate and actions. Our Board of Education, leadership team, faculty, and staff work together in solidarity against racism and hate.
Our school’s mission is Success for Every Student. When we fall short of this ideal, we disappoint our students, our parents and ourselves. Thank you to those who have reached out over the past few days. It is clear we have not lived up to our high standards. Our school should be a safe space for every student, at all times.
Racial discrimination causes grief, sadness, anger and frustration over what feels like an inability to conquer racism and protect our loved ones and our communities. These conversations can be difficult for students and adults. On Tuesday, June 2, Mr. Gobble, Principal and Ms. Bowen, Director of Student Services, sent an email to all families and students acknowledging the incredibly challenging week our nation has undergone, and encouraging students who were seeking an outlet for their anger, grief and confusion to reach out to our counseling staff for help. Their letter, entitled “Help for Students During Troubled Times,” can be found in the “Communication With Parents” section at https://www.d125.org/parents.
We are here to listen, to learn, and to get better. We remain committed to our role in continuing the conversation on equity, race, and diversity. Please know that we are available to talk to you at any time now or in the future. Please do not hesitate to contact either one or both of us to set up an appointment by phone or by Zoom.
Sincerely,
Eric Twadell Troy Gobble
Superintendent Principal
etwadell@d125.org tgobble@d125.org
(847) 415-4101 847) 415-4106