Woodstock School Faces Backlash Over Racism Case
More than 100 individuals have signed a petition demanding the resignation or removal of Sherry Sousa, the superintendent of the Mountain Views Supervisory Union, following a recent VTDigger expose on persistent racial harassment experienced by a 13-year-old Black student at Woodstock Union Middle and High School. The petition, which includes signatures from parents of students in the seven-town district in central Vermont, stresses the urgent need for accountability and inclusivity to ensure a safe learning environment for all children.
In response to the petition, Superintendent Sousa expressed a sense of sorrow, acknowledging the ongoing work required to combat racism within the school system. While Sousa maintains that educators strive to address harmful incidents, she concedes the limitations in preventing such situations altogether. The recent investigation by the Vermont Human Rights Commission, which found evidence of discrimination against the student due to the school’s failure to intervene adequately, culminated in a $175,000 settlement—the largest in the commission’s history.
Parental Concerns Drive Change
Jessica Kirby, a concerned parent from Woodstock, played a pivotal role in spearheading the petition as a response to community unease with the district’s handling of the racial harassment case. Kirby emphasized the importance of holding leadership accountable to set a precedent against tolerating unacceptable behavior. The petition, signed by 105 individuals, underscores the collective demand for meaningful change and transparency within the school administration.
Jaya Holliman, the mother of the student who endured racial harassment, expressed relief at the community’s support and the acknowledgment of discriminatory practices. Holliman’s son, now attending a private high school in a different district, faced repeated mistreatment that culminated in a decision to seek education elsewhere. The petition serves as a vital reminder of the impact of leadership decisions on student welfare and the community’s stance against injustice.
Challenges in Addressing Racism
While the board has yet to publicly address the petition, Chair Keri Bristow maintains that the majority of members are hesitant to dismiss Superintendent Sousa. Bristow commended the district’s commitment to addressing racism, gender identity bias, and anti-racism, emphasizing the importance of thorough investigations and timely responses to incidents. However, the petition highlights a systemic failure to address a recurring pattern of bullying and harassment, casting doubts on the district’s ability to protect students effectively.
Mia Schultz, president of the Rutland Area NAACP, echoed concerns raised by the petition, emphasizing the need for schools to prioritize student safety over institutional protection. The recurring failures to safeguard students and enact meaningful change underscore a broader challenge faced by educational institutions in addressing systemic issues. As the community continues to push for accountability and transparency, the future of Woodstock Union Middle and High School hangs in the balance.
The Woodstock school’s response to the petition will undoubtedly shape its reputation and standing within the community. As stakeholders grapple with the aftermath of the racial harassment case, the call for decisive action and genuine commitment to change resonates across Vermont. The journey towards a more inclusive and equitable education system demands unwavering dedication and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths head-on. Only through collective effort and a shared vision for a brighter future can schools like Woodstock truly embody the values of accountability, inclusivity, and meaningful change.
