Dear Piedmont Staff and Families,
This past year has been one of extreme uncertainty for our staff, students, and families and across the Bay Area and Nation. As we all deal with the trauma of the pandemic, we cannot ignore the anxiety felt by many as it relates to the Derek Chauvin trial for the death of George Floyd. Unfortunately, this trial does not represent an isolated issue. Each day seems to bring another tragic event that impacts the lives of our students, staff and families.
The release of yesterday’s verdict signals, for many, a turning point in our judicial system — one that can begin to move our nation toward a more just judicial system that holds accountable those who abuse that system to oppress people of color.
Over the coming days, we anticipate an array of emotions, some that may result in demonstrations and celebrations, while others may manifest in conversation and deep reflection. As we all process this verdict, we want to ensure the safety of our staff and students, cultivating brave and safe spaces where individuals can reflect, share, and move to action in a way that is powerful and productive.
I encourage everyone to take the time you need to process. While there may be differences of opinion on the particulars of this case, our commitment as a school district, as outlined in the Board of Education’s Resolution 01-2020-21 Condemning Institutional And Systemic Racism And Affirming A Commitment To Educational Equity For Black Students, Families, And Staff and Board Policy 0415.1 Racial Equity, remains central to how we will operate and respond as an organization. We believe strongly in allowing our school leaders and teachers to provide safe spaces for students to express their feelings and engage in important issues, including peacefully and respectfully making their voices heard.
I want to acknowledge and thank our educators for having conversations with students regularly about race, what it means to live as an anti-racist, how to stand up against Asian hate and Anti-Semitism, and how to take action in fighting against all types of hate and in support of all forms of social justice. They have immersed themselves in reading about anti-racist education, designing units that integrate the social justice standards with their content, talking with colleagues about how to support students of color, and learning ways to be a stronger ally. I want to sincerely thank them for taking action in such tumultuous times.
I wanted to share this article specific to the Chauvin trial, which might help families if you plan to discuss the trial with your children. We know that with the Chauvin verdict there will be many questions and emotions. We rely heavily on the Learning for Justice Resources when working with students on racial equity and justice topics. You may find this and some of the following resources beneficial as well. Here are a few ideas for both talking to your child, and supporting yourself and the community:
Talk to your children about race. They do not have the context to make sense of what they may hear on the playground or in the news. Give your child the insight and guidance they need to better understand what is going on in the world.
Be curious and ask questions about racism, social justice and restorative practices. For more information:
Thank you for all that you do to support our students and educational community.
Sincerely,
Randall Booker, Superintendent
