The Lambton-Kent District School Board (LKDSB) is investigating allegations that a teacher at Chatham-Kent Secondary School (CKSS) made racist comments to a student.
The student, who posted the video to social media, alleges the teacher told him to take off a durag because he "looked like a gangster” when he wore it at school a couple of weeks ago. A durag is a cloth used to cover the head and is popular in African-American culture. The student says he's been waiting for a resolution to the situation, but nothing has been done yet.
It's unclear if any corrective, disciplinary, or other action has been taken against the teacher.
The student accuses the school of trying to "sweep it (the situation) under the rug." He said he had to switch classes and catch up on weeks of work.
"I'm tired of waiting. They are trying to sweep this situation under the rug. My teacher was being racist to me and this situation has affected me a lot emotionally. This is wrong and something needs to be done," the student said.
LKDSB Director of Education John Howitt told CK News Today the school board is committed to its strategic priority of inclusive diversity and championing anti-oppressive education.
"We expect our schools to promote positive, welcoming and safe spaces for all learners and employees," said Howitt. "We continue to raise knowledge and awareness within the LKDSB and community through training, communications, outreach, school curriculum and professional learning opportunities."
Howitt said the school is also implementing professional development and training opportunities for staff, including the Ontario College of Teachers Professional Advisory on Anti-Black Racism.
"We continue to work together with students, parents/guardians and staff to increase awareness and understanding of historic, systemic and ongoing forms of racism and oppression and provide strategies for combating and reporting incidents," the education director said.
Howitt also encourages parents/guardians and students with questions or concerns about issues involving the school community to follow-up directly with the child’s school.
Howitt noted the board is not able to provide any specific comments or further details about the incident for the protection of personal information.
"As is the case with any concerns that are brought to our attention, the LKDSB follows the appropriate board policies, regulations and procedures as required," he said.
Attempts to contact Chatham-Kent Secondary School Principal Ben Lawton about the matter were unsuccessful.
It's unknown how long the school board investigation will take.