Addressing the Use of Derogatory Language in our Schools

In District 300, we are committed to ensuring all students feel a strong sense of safety and belonging in our schools. Unfortunately, our staff have observed an increased frequency of derogatory language used in our buildings. 

I would like to make clear that District 300 stands firmly against the use of derogatory language in our schools. This type of language does not align with our values or our commitment to providing all students with a safe learning environment. Any use of language that harms, belittles, or inflicts emotional pain onto others will not be tolerated. 

An exceptionally high volume of derogatory language is occurring in our middle schools. Consequently, earlier this month, the district added the Incident Reporting Form to each middle school’s homepage, providing parents and students the opportunity to report the use of derogatory language.

Parents with students at any grade level are welcome to use the Incident Reporting Form. The Incident Reporting Form can be used by parents, guardians, and students to report language or behavior that harms a student.

In addition to the Incident Reporting Form, District 300 encourages parents to speak with their child about the dangers of derogatory language. It is normal for children to notice differences between their classmates, especially at the middle school level. If comfortable, parents can let their child know, being “different from someone” does not mean being “less than someone.” 

In our commitment to reduce derogatory language in our schools, District 300 will take the following actions over the next several weeks and into the next school year:

• Provide professional development to all principals on how to address the use of derogatory language in our schools

• Establish a process to review student discipline data, identify student behavior patterns, and address incidents in a systematic manner at the district and school level

• Continue developing professional development for all staff members

• Determine appropriate classroom lessons and activities to reinforce student expectations

• Develop pathways to work with families to partner in this area

• Identify activities at the beginning of the year and throughout the year to reinforce expectations. 

With your partnership, I am confident we will be able to effectively address and reduce derogatory language use in our schools and provide every student with the safe learning environment they deserve. If you have any questions or concerns related to derogatory language, please email Adrian Harries, Director of Student Learning and Development at Adrian.Harries@d300.org.