An incident at Lyles Crouch Traditional Academy in Alexandria last Tuesday involved white students allegedly segregating students of color, including a fifth-grade boy who is half Asian, during an after-school game. The boy’s mother, Kathryn Kelley, stated that her son was told he couldn’t sit with the white students and that mixed-race kids had to sit separately, with African American and Black kids facing further segregation. Some students also allegedly teased students based on their race and class, causing confusion and distress for the boy as he tried to understand and stand up for his friends.
The school’s principal sent a letter to parents acknowledging the incident as an “inappropriate game” that made some students uncomfortable, part of a “role play of a social studies lesson.” The principal highlighted the challenge of discussing difficult topics in education and the importance of being aware of potential offense that may arise. Kelley expressed concern over the handling of the situation, emphasizing that while students need to learn about topics like segregation and white supremacy, it should not be turned into a game. She called for a more serious approach to teaching these issues.
In response to the incident, the school’s principal stated plans to work with her team to incorporate lessons into the curriculum on thinking before speaking and acting, emphasizing the school community’s collective responsibility to ensure all students feel valued and respected. Greg Carr, an Afro American studies professor at Howard University, suggested simple lessons on inclusion such as discussing how kids feel when they see TV characters who look like them, as well as incorporating guest speakers who experienced segregation firsthand. Carr stressed the importance of educating students on the real impact of segregation from those who lived through that period.
It is unclear if any students involved in the game faced disciplinary actions. The principal’s letter to parents did not provide details on this matter. Moving forward, there is a need for comprehensive education on topics like segregation and white supremacy in a manner that is respectful and acknowledges the seriousness of these issues. Additionally, fostering an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and respected is essential in preventing incidents like the one that occurred at Lyles Crouch Traditional Academy. Ultimately, the goal is to educate students on the impact of discriminatory practices like segregation while promoting empathy, understanding, and respect for all individuals within the school community.
Lessons on inclusion and empathy can be incorporated into the curriculum to help students understand the importance of treating others with respect and recognizing the impact of discriminatory practices. By engaging students in discussions about social issues and providing opportunities to learn from those who have experienced segregation firsthand, schools can foster a culture of inclusion and understanding. It is crucial for educators and school leaders to address incidents of discrimination promptly and effectively, working to create a safe and welcoming environment for all students. By promoting a culture of respect and empathy, schools can help prevent future incidents of discrimination and ensure that all students feel valued and supported in their learning environment.
