Did Hinsdale D-86 Students Get Controversial Letter?

HINSDALE, IL — Some Hinsdale High School District 86 residents say the district emailed all students the letter from an anti-racist consultant that called Hinsdale "dangerous."

At least two residents made that allegation at last Thursday's school board meeting. They were referring to the withdrawal letter from North Carolina-based anti-racist consultant Valda Valbrun, who was poised to get a contract with the district.

Is it true her letter was sent to all students?

Yet, but some context is necessary.

In an email to Patch late last week, the district's spokesman, Chris Jasculca, said neither the superintendent nor the district sent the letter as a standalone message. It was part of the larger "Board Briefs," which are sent to students and families after all school board meetings.

Many residents are upset that Prentiss read Valbrun's letter at a mid-January board meeting. They say Prentiss insulted Hinsdale in doing so and are calling for her resignation.

In response to a public records request, the district provided correspondence between Valbrun and Prentiss. Valbrun emailed her withdrawal letter to Prentiss. The next day, Prentiss sent back Valbrun's letter with changes in an email titled, "Please preview."

Prentiss added two sentences to the withdrawal letter. One of them said, "I got several messages yesterday and really think Hinsdale is a dangerous place and would not be physically comfortable there."

In the next part of the letter, Valbrun decried attempts to discredit herself and the inequities in the district. Prentiss' email added the sentence, "It's shameful, and I feel sorry for the students that have to experience this and don't have the privilege of walking away."

The district said the additional sentences were added at Valbrun's request.

Valbrun has not returned messages for comment.