A vivid, cinematic scene with soft, warm lighting illuminating a group of diverse students standing in a school hallway. The focus is on a Black female student, with a medium brown complexion, her expression a mix of determination and concern as she holds books tightly against her chest. Beside her stands a Latino male student, light olive skin, looking towards her with a look of solidarity, his arm resting on the locker next to him. The background features blurred lockers and a subtle school banner promoting diversity in education, reflecting a tense but hopeful atmosphere. The mood should evoke a sense of urgency and the need for change, with the visual element of the students' attire indicating a casual yet professional school environment.
The Newark School of Global Studies reveals alarming racial incidents and inadequate administrative responses highlighting deep systemic racism in education Image generated by DALL E

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Newark School’s Racial Incidents Reveal Failures in Administration

By Darius Spearman (africanelements)

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KEY TAKEAWAYS
The Newark School of Global Studies has faced allegations of significant racial harassment.
Reported incidents included racial slurs and threats targeting Black students.
The school’s administration has been criticized for its ineffective response to racial incidents.
There has been a notable transfer out of Black students and increased turnover of Black teachers.
The Newark school district has resisted releasing a detailed report on the incidents.
Legal actions have been initiated by affected students and teachers seeking accountability.

Systemic Racism in Education: Newark School of Global Studies Scandal Unveils Deep Issues

A surprising revelation shows that systemic racism is ingrained in educational systems. A leaked report reveals repeated racial incidents at the Newark School of Global Studies. Ironically, this school focuses on global business and diplomacy but has become a hotbed of discrimination against Black students and teachers.

15%
Black Student Enrollment
38%
Black Student Suspensions
46%
White Student Enrollment
24%
White Student Suspensions
Visualization shows the disproportionate rate of school suspensions between Black and White students. Source: National Center for Education Statistics

The report shows a troubling school environment with prevalent racism. Black students were called harmful slurs such as “chimpanzee,” “slave,” and the N-word. These were not random events but part of frequent harassment, creating a hostile atmosphere for learning.

One notably bad incident involved a student being dubbed a “smart chimpanzee,” and another student faced threats of having their hijab taken off. These incidents went beyond words, creating fear and intimidation among Black students (PBS).

Administrative Inaction: A Breach of Trust and Responsibility

The school’s response to these incidents was a complete failure. Their inefficient handling of complaints betrayed students and parents. The “progressive discipline policy” and “restorative justice approach” were mere words, letting offenders stay in classes without real punishment.

This failure led to more consequences. Black students, feeling unsafe, began leaving the school at high rates. Black teachers faced a hostile work setting and left more frequently than their Latino, Asian, and white colleagues.

The school’s lack of action didn’t solve the issue but instead made it worse. By allowing racist acts to continue, the administration silently approved, creating a cycle of harassment without consequences (Atlanta Black Star).

The Human Impact of Institutional Racism

The failure of the system had a severe impact on Black students. Constant exposure to racial slurs and threats deeply affected their emotional well-being. Many reported anxiety and depression, making it difficult to focus on studies. The school, which should have been a safe learning space, became a place of trauma and stress.

Teacher vs Student Diversity in Public Schools

Students of Color 50%
Teachers of Color 20%
Visualization shows the disparity between student and teacher diversity in public schools. Source: National Education Association

Parents felt helpless and upset as their children’s complaints were ignored. Tensions rose when they began voicing demands for action and accountability at school board meetings (NJ Ed Report).

The Cover-Up: District’s Refusal to Share Information

The Newark school district resisted releasing the full report to the public to protect its image. Despite legal challenges and public demands, they claim it is an internal document to shape their strategy on race and diversity.

This lack of transparency raises concern. It seems the district values its reputation over students’ well-being. By withholding key information, they fail their duty to the public and hinder efforts to fix racial harassment.

The district’s actions prompt questions about its dedication to fighting racism and fostering an inclusive educational environment. They must address the major problems close to home if they are genuinely committed to global education.

Legal and Administrative Consequences

The scandal led to a surge in legal activity. Affected students and teachers filed claims and lawsuits against the district, seeking justice and compensation for their suffering. These legal steps aim not only to provide individual relief but also to hold the institution responsible.

In a notable development, attempts have been made to remove a school board member whose child experienced harassment. This illustrates the personal costs of the scandal and the lengths some will go to silence voices seeking justice (Atlanta Black Star)

Understanding Systemic Racism in Education

Systemic racism in education refers to entrenched practices and policies that disadvantage certain racial groups. It isn’t about individual prejudices but about how institutions operate. These ingrained disparities affect funding, curricula, and representation in schools (Understanding Systemic Racism in Education | Robert F. Smith). Consequently, students of color often face hurdles that their peers do not.

Moreover, systemic racism can be hard to spot because it’s woven into the fabric of the education system. It seems normal, making it challenging to address without significant changes. Recognizing these hidden biases is the first step toward creating an equitable environment for all students (Systemic And Structural Racism: Definitions, Examples, Health …).

What Is Systemic Racism?

Systemic Racism Icon

Systemic Racism: Deep-rooted policies and practices within institutions that disadvantage specific racial groups. It’s not about individual actions but how entire systems function. Recognizing systemic racism is crucial to addressing inequalities in education and other areas.

The Role of Discipline Policies in Schools

Discipline policies like progressive discipline and restorative justice aim to address student behavior constructively. A progressive discipline policy outlines clear consequences that escalate with repeated offenses. This approach provides consistency and fairness, helping students understand the implications of their actions (Evidence-Driven Progressive Discipline – The Principal Center).

Restorative justice focuses on repairing harm and rebuilding relationships. Instead of punishing students, it encourages them to take responsibility and make amends. This method fosters a positive school climate where students feel valued and understood (Restorative Justice in Schools). Together, these policies can reduce conflicts and create a supportive environment.

Importance of Transparency and Accountability

Transparency in handling incidents is essential for building trust within the school community. Students and parents feel heard and respected when institutions are open about their processes. Lack of transparency can lead to mistrust and a sense that issues are being ignored (Understanding Systemic Racism in Education | Robert F. Smith).

Accountability goes hand in hand with transparency. Schools must hold individuals and themselves responsible for actions that contribute to systemic racism. This means addressing individual incidents and examining and changing policies that allow such behavior to persist (Systemic And Structural Racism: Definitions, Examples, Health …). By doing so, educational institutions can begin to dismantle the barriers that harm marginalized students.

Steps Toward Creating Equitable Schools

To dismantle systemic racism, schools need to implement comprehensive reforms. This includes revising policies, increasing diversity among staff, and providing anti-bias training for educators. Actively involving the community and listening to students’ voices are crucial (Understanding Systemic Racism in Education | Robert F. Smith).

Moreover, adopting restorative practices can help repair relationships and build a sense of community. Schools should create safe spaces where all students feel valued and supported. By taking these steps, educational institutions can foster an environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed (Restorative Justice in Schools).

FAQ

Q: What incidents of racial harassment were reported at Newark School of Global Studies?
A: Black students faced dehumanizing slurs such as “chimpanzee,” “slave,” and the N-word, creating a hostile learning environment marked by a sustained campaign of harassment.

Q: How did the school administration respond to the complaints of racial harassment?
A: The school administration’s response was ineffective and inconsistent, failing to address complaints adequately and allowing offenders to remain in classes without meaningful consequences.

Q: What impact did the racial incidents have on Black students and teachers?
A: Many Black students reported feeling anxious and depressed, leading to higher transfer rates. Black teachers faced a hostile work environment and higher turnover rates compared to their peers.

Q: Why has the Newark school district refused to release the full report on these incidents?
A: The district claims the report is an internal document for guiding its race and diversity strategy, prioritizing its image over the well-being of students and obstructing efforts to address the root causes of the harassment.

Q: What actions are being taken by affected students and teachers?
A: Affected individuals have filed claims and lawsuits against the district seeking justice for the harm endured, emphasizing the need for accountability and change in the educational system.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Darius Spearman is a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College, where he has been teaching since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.