School principals: Racism and hate have no place in the Falls Church Pyramid
The principals of the schools in the Falls Church High School Pyramid issued a message expressing “sadness and outrage about the instances of racism and hate that have occurred in our country during the last few weeks, and over the course of time.” [UPDATE: Principals in the Annandale and Justice pyramids subsequently issued similar messages.]
The June 2 email message to the community says: “These awful events are especially painful for our black and African American community members. We acknowledge this and want you to know that we see you and stand with you. Racism and hate have no place in the world and no place in the Falls Church Pyramid. The Falls Church Pyramid is a diverse community that we are proud to lead.”
The principals have asked teachers to talk with students about racism and why everyone needs to stand up to racism and hate. “We will also work together to identify ways to continue these important conversations with our staff and students next school year,” they state. “Our schools also will receive professional learning on equitable and culturally responsive practices.”
The message recommends the following resources for families:
The email was signed by these principals: Ben Nowak (Falls Church High School), Mike Magliola (Luther Jackson Middle School), Aileen Flaherty (Camelot Elementary School), Candace Hunstad (Fairhill ES), Lauren Badini (Graham Road ES), Nikki Yacubovich (Pine Spring ES), Linda Ferguson (Westlawn ES), and Dwayne Young (Woodburn ES).
