Council Rock South Principal Addresses Hate, Intolerance In District

Council Rock High School South Principal Albert Funk sent a letter to the school's community Monday, addressing the vandalism and harassment issues that have arisen at Council Rock High School North in the past weeks.

In his letter, Funk said while these events occurred at North, "South is not immune to those very same challenges."

"As such, we are endeavoring to work with North, central administration, and organizations like the Peace Center to ensure that we are promoting an environment where all students and staff are respectful and respected," he wrote.

Funk said students will be participating in assembly programs Tuesday to be part of the conversation that centers on tolerance and respect for others.

Funk also said upcoming teacher in-service days will be used to discuss the issues, as well as forming staff/students committees to help the school better understand the "current climate" and develop strategies for moving forward after the incidents in a positive way.

"The most essential voice in the conversation is that of the student," Funk said.

The issues at CRN spurred an alumni to pen a letter to current CRN students and a large community gathering to speak out against intolerance.

Recently, Council Rock School District Superintendent Dr. Robert Fraser and Council Rock North High School Principal Susan McCarthy laid out a plan of action for the district to better educate students and faculty on the issues facing the district with the vandalism and harassment.

Fraser called the unfortunate events a "teachable moment" that will allow for additional training and support for district staff to better help them identify and respond to issues such as last week's incidents.

Patch file photo