Hamilton principal issues apology following racist incident during online school session

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Published January 7, 2022 at 2:46 pm

The principal of a Hamilton elementary school has issued an apology to families following a reported anti-Black racist incident during an online class session on Thursday (Jan. 6).

According to a letter addressed to families in the Collegiate Elementary School community in lower Stoney Creek, someone entered an online classroom and used “racial slurs and other inappropriate language, and shared disturbing and graphic images.”

Collegiate Principal Lisa Barzetti told families in the letter that the incident is under investigation and that it will be reported to police.

“We understand and apologize for the impact this language has on Black and racialized students and recognize that it also harms students and staff who hear about the incident,” she wrote.

“Social workers will be available as needed to support students affected by this incident.”

The letter goes on to provide resources for anonymous support for those impacted by the incident and that online safety and appropriate behaviour will be reviewed by staff and students.

“We all have a role in creating inclusive learning spaces and a culture where all students and staff are safe, supported and accepted,” Barzetti said in the letter.

“We take this responsibility seriously and will be proactively addressing safety and inclusion in the classroom with our students.”

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