Parents say children were called racial slurs by teacher at Columbus County school
COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — A group of parents in Columbus County say they are outraged after a teacher allegedly called their children racial slurs.
Mirian McCoy and Charniska McCray said their daughters were called “monkey” and “slave” by a substitute teacher at Williams Township Elementary.
On Tuesday, national civil rights activist John C. Barnett traveled to the school, holding a news conference with the mothers demanding the teacher be suspended permanently, have her teaching license revoked, and be charged with Ethnic Intimidation. According to Barnett, the teacher was already suspended temporarily.
“Monkey, spook, slave, the N word, all those are words categized under ‘Ethnic Intimidation,’ so not only does the teacher need to be suspended and fired, but she needs to be charged,” Barnett said at the news conference. “We’re exercising the First Amendment, and I’m going to exercise it over and over again until they hear my cry.”
McCoy said she chose to speak out so that other students of color will know they’re supported and valued.
“When I did hear about what was going on, it devastated me because we send our kids here everyday to learn, and if you’re going to be teaching our kids, we want our kids to be comfortable with you,” McCoy said.
McCray echoing that sentiment.
“Our kids will get justice. My voice is gon’ speak for all of them,” McCray said
WWWAY reached out to the Columbus County Schools for comment. We received a statement that reads:
“We are aware of the recent allegations raised regarding a substitute teacher and alleged racist comments and take these matters very seriously. At this point of our investigation, no determination has been made as to the claims presented. As the investigation continues, we will provide clarification on these issues as information becomes available.
Our board policies strictly and unequivocally prohibit behavior of a racist nature in any form. Such conduct is completely unacceptable and will result in immediate and severe disciplinary action. The well-being and trust of our students, families, and staff remain our highest priority, and we are deeply committed to treating every child fairly and equitably.
We value all concerns and welcome anyone with additional questions or information to contact us directly. We encourage all stakeholders to report concerns directly to the principal or superintendent so we can address them promptly and appropriately. Our commitment to serving our community is unwavering, and Columbus County Schools will ensure that all policies and procedures are always followed.”
Also on Tuesday, Barnett, McCray, and McCoy held a private meeting district leadership about the incident. Barnett later told WWAY the meeting went well, but that there are still some “concerns.”
