Return to Headlines
Important update from Superintendent Deborah Bettencourt
The following message was delivered to all Folsom Cordova Unified staff on Jan. 19, 2017:
Good evening Folsom Cordova employees,
Most of you know by now that the District this week placed a Sutter Middle School teacher on paid administrative leave so that we could conduct a personnel investigation, after this teacher faced two consecutive allegations of racial insensitivity.
I’m reaching out tonight to provide you an update on this matter, the reasons for actions taken, and to help address concerns we’ve heard from some employees. I recognize that our teachers and staff are doing some of the hardest work there is, and I want provide as much clarity and assurance as possible.
Tonight in closed session, the Board of Education accepted this Sutter Middle School teacher’s retirement, in addition to the unrelated retirement of four others, and he will not be returning to school this year.
While I am limited in what I can discuss publicly about a personnel matter, I do want to continue a dialogue about our process, our expectations, and our shared responsibility to reflect on our practice and create safe, inclusive learning environments for all children.
First, our process: Any time that a teacher or staff member is accused of racially insensitive behavior - in this case, it was more than once - it is our schools’ responsibility to fully investigate. This action is necessary to uncover the facts, and it sends a message to our families - who entrust us with the education and safety of their children every day - that we take their concerns seriously.
Several teachers have reached out to ask how this matter impacts them. Let me be clear: We do not want to limit the free speech of our teachers. As our Board president said during tonight’s meeting, conducting an investigation does not mean that our educators should be afraid to teach, to challenge our students, to use historical artifacts, or to help deepen our students’ understanding of uncomfortable aspects of society. These are all vital aspects of effective instruction.
Our expectations, however, are that teachers and staff will do this work using culturally appropriate strategies. That means reflecting on, and making an effort to understand, the unique experiences our students bring to the table. Creating an educational environment where students of all backgrounds do not feel alienated or unsafe is our top priority.
This is challenging territory, and I encourage you to reach out to me so that we continue the conversation. Your feedback is vital to providing you the support you need. Thank you for your commitment and hard work to support our students’ success.
Sincerely,
Deborah Bettencourt