Soquel Principal Addresses Controversial Suspensions

Principal Ken Lawrence-Emanuel sent a note out to the Soquel community last week and again this week in the newest edition of Knight's Notes. He addressed the racial controversy that has abounded on campus this year, and which last week culminated in .

See Lawrence-Emanuel's statement here:

I am writing to communicate with you about recent events here at Soquel High School. I want to reassure you that the safety of our students and a school climate which promotes respect for all is our highest concern.

During the past several months, a number of students and parents have reported to the Soquel staff that there is a group of students on campus engaging in intimidating and harassing behavior. The group identifies themselves as WP or White Pride or White Power. We have found graffiti including swastikas on a number of occasions in restrooms, painted on the outside of the classrooms, and carved in desks as well as on papers found in classrooms and hallways. When specific students were identified we contacted the students and talked with them about the power of words and symbols and warned them this behavior would not be tolerated on our campus. We were clear about our expectations.

On Tuesday, during the senior class picture, a number of students, some of whom had already been warned about such behavior, dressed in white t-shirts and stood as a group. Some of the students wore bandanas. Bandanas of any kind are against the school dress code. Many students reported to teachers and other staff members that they were angry their class picture was ruined by the "white power kids." Some felt frightened and intimidated. Several parents also contacted the school administration to express their outrage.

After reviewing a copy of the picture we took immediate action. While I cannot discuss specific discipline I can tell you the students were disciplined in accordance with our school and district policy.

[Thursday] many of our students participated in a rally at lunch time. It was student organized and the theme was peace. The students proceeded to the gym and the overall message of the student speakers was: we need to take a stand against this. This is not the adults' problem; it is our problem. We don't want racist behavior on our campus and we all need to speak out against it.

The students in attendance understood this was not about freedom to wear what you want. This was about having a school where everyone is protected from harassment.

Soquel High School staff and students are committed to moving forward together to maintain a safe school environment where students can learn and develop as young people free from intimidation. We ask our entire community to join with us in this effort. 

Ken Lawrence-Emanuel, Principal

What are your thoughts on the situation and the principal's response? Tell us in the comments.