A Colorado school district is facing serious allegations of racial bias in its disciplinary practices, according to a formal complaint filed by a legal group. The complaint details a pattern of unequal treatment, suggesting race is a significant factor in how students are disciplined and even how administrators are evaluated.
The core of the issue centers on a stark disparity in consequences. In one instance, an Asian student faced suspension for an incident involving a video shared online, while Black students involved in the same incident – those who actually disseminated the video more widely – received no disciplinary action whatsoever.
The complaint alleges that district administrators were explicitly warned against addressing the differing treatment due to potential public backlash and records requests. A former assistant principal reportedly instructed staff to avoid discussing the matter in writing, fearing scrutiny.
Undercover recordings reportedly reveal a troubling dynamic within the district. Administrators allegedly admit the district’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) department actively interferes with consistent disciplinary enforcement, prioritizing perceived cultural sensitivities over uniform standards.
One recording features a school principal suggesting that challenging behavior from a Black student isn’t misbehavior at all, but rather “culturally appropriate communication.” The principal allegedly stated that any attempt to address the behavior would be viewed as “punitive” and rooted in “Whiteness.”
School personnel reportedly felt powerless to enforce rules against certain students, fearing intervention would be overruled by the DEI department. They allegedly expressed a belief that any attempt to discipline these students would be met with resistance and accusations of bias.
The allegations extend beyond student discipline to include retaliation against staff. A former Dean of Students allegedly faced repercussions after expressing patriotic sentiments during a district-led training session. He identified as an American and affirmed his belief in the country, a statement deemed by a DEI executive as having “racist undertones.”
Shortly after this incident, the Dean of Students was informed his position had been eliminated, ostensibly due to budgetary constraints. The timing, however, raises concerns about a deliberate attempt to silence dissenting voices within the district.
The legal group filed a civil rights complaint with the Department of Education and the Department of Justice, citing violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. They are demanding a full investigation and corrective action to ensure equal treatment for all students and staff.
The school district declined to comment on the complaint, stating they had “no knowledge” of it – despite having been provided with a copy. This response has further fueled concerns about transparency and accountability within the district.
