Pine-Richland investigating after 2 middle school students took 'racist photo' in school bathroom

Pine-Richland School District officials said they are investigating after two middle school students took a “racist photo” in a school bathroom.

District officials said the photo was taken during field day activities earlier this week.

“The building administrators are conducting an investigation and will take appropriate next steps consistent with the Discipline Code,” school officials said in a letter to the Pine-Richland community dated Thursday.

School officials said they appreciated that students and parents brought the photo to their attention.

“Pine-Richland School District values a school culture that is safe, supportive and welcoming for all students,” the letter reads. “We are opposed to racism in any form and the actions of these students.”

The district said its goal is to “strengthen a positive culture for every student.” The foundation for student learning in the district, officials said, is “established in a safe and supportive environment.”

“That environment should embrace diversity in all forms,” officials said in their letter to students and families. “That includes differences in race, gender, religion and more.”

School officials said they have “engaged in conversations and actions designed to strengthen school culture and diversity” and will continue to do so.

Students or families who have any information about any safety-related matter can contact the TIP line at 724-449-TIPS and use the Safe2Say Something application or website.

The district had another controversy earlier in the school year with a student using a racist sign for a Homecoming prom-posal.

Related

• Pine-Richland officials taking 'appropriate next steps' to address racist Homecoming sign
• Pine-Richland parents voice concerns following racist social media incident involving students
• First Amendment likely prevents Pine-Richland from disciplining student after racist Homecoming sign incident