Footage of the incident made its way across social media platforms on Wednesday, and viewers were divided on if the teacher should face charges.
“Took it too far? Yes. Would I have probably done the same? Yes,” noted one Instagram reader. “FR These kids nowadays are so disrespectful to adults,” replied another user.
“These ‘grown kids are hiding behind the protection of their parents but really have the worst intentions. Sure it was wrong but am I mad about it? Nope. Lay his ass out,” added another person. Another user wrote, “These kids gon learn today !!!!!”
The incident prompted a peaceful protest on campus Tuesday by students in opposition to use of the racial slur, which was reportedly the N-word, according to KTVU. The substitute was seen “grabbing the student” who used the racial slur, “throwing him to the floor,” and forcibly removing him from the classroom, said the news agency. Richmond police are investigating the case as a possible misdemeanor battery, KTVU added.
Dr. Hurst’s full statement on the incident follows:
Dear WCCUSD Community,
I want to echo our community’s concern regarding the incident that occurred in a classroom at Richmond High School on Monday, January 23, in which a student used a racial slur toward a staff member and that staff member responded by physically assaulting the student. I would like to share our immediate response to the incident and also share our commitment to addressing the underlying issues that this incident has laid bare.
On behalf of the West Contra Costa Unified School District, I strongly condemn the use of any racial slurs or harmful language, as well as the use of physical violence. Schools must be psychologically and physically safe in order for students to learn and for educators to teach.
Physical violence by an adult is never an appropriate response to a child. Furthermore, acts of violence are deeply harmful to all present in a learning environment. We also know that racial slurs are deeply harmful to students and staff, and we are committed to restoring a learning environment that affirms the inherent dignity and worth of all members of our community.
We are fully investigating Monday’s incident, and staff are following up to ensure that there are appropriate administrative responses for all involved. I can confirm that the staff member involved in Monday’s incident was immediately released from employment with WCCUSD. While we do not discuss matters of student discipline, I can also confirm that staff are following up with the student and their family in order to ensure an appropriate response and necessary support. We are responsible for supporting the growth and development of all WCCUSD students, including after any transgression.
The incident happened Monday during an Intro to Ethnic Studies class for freshmen. The substitute has not been identified, but students told KTVU his name is Mr. Campbell and he was reportedly an assistant football coach.
"He was actually very well respected by all the students… everybody loved him," Rogelio Casillas, a junior, said. "Overall I just think it could have been handled better."
Black Student Union Advisor Kiraa Easter said the peaceful protest started during the lunch hour and lasted until the end of the school day. She said she was proud of students for organizing the effort. The group came up with the chant, "we stop, you stop." She hopes the incident sparks a culture change on campus.
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