Sacramento, CA – In response to recently reported use of racist language by a teacher at Kit Carson Middle School, the Sacramento City Unified School District Board issued the following statement. While the statement represents the view of the entire Board, the statement may be attributed to Board President Christina Pritchett:

“The Sacramento City Unified School Board was horrified to learn that a teacher at a school in our district used racist language in the classroom. Our Board condemns racism and the use of racist language in the strongest terms. Racism, racist behaviors, and racist language are unacceptable, and will not be tolerated in the Sacramento City Unified School District.

“We affirm the right of all students to get an education free of racism. Our Board has directed the Sac City Unified staff to act quickly to fully investigate this incident and to take appropriate action to address the situation.  

“Sacramento is one of the most diverse cities in the nation, and the Sacramento City Unified School District student population reflects this wonderful diversity. We want each student to receive an education that helps them reach their full potential by nurturing their academic, social, and emotional growth. The use of racist language by a teacher does the opposite.

“No student should be subjected to this unacceptable language, and we encourage students and families impacted by this incident to contact Sac City Unified’s Student Support Services.

“It is imperative that teachers who perform their duties within Sac City Unified classrooms provide and champion safe and nurturing spaces for all students that cultivate a culture of care, compassion, understanding, and belonging for all. Our Board is redoubling our commitment to anti-racism policies, and to further lean into our guiding principle of Equity and Access so that all Sac City Unified students are given an equal opportunity to graduate with the greatest number of postsecondary choices from the widest array of options.”