Editor,

RSU 21’s objective is to be a welcoming and inclusive educational community. The safety and well-being of our students and staff is our primary concern and we condemn any behavior which is not in furtherance of this objective or which otherwise seeks to diminish or belittle any members of our community.

Hate speech, intimidation, discrimination, and bigotry targeting any student or staff will not be tolerated in this district.

As a community, we have become aware of instances where we have not lived up to this principle. This has created an opportunity for education, a time to remind ourselves that we, as a school community, stand for respect and inclusion.

It has also reinforced our obligation to ensure that our schools are places where all are free to learn, teach and work in a safe and welcoming environment.

To that end, the RSU #21 Board of Directors has taken or will take the following actions:

First, we will have an independent investigation of the events described in the recent Portland Press Herald articles. We have retained an independent legal advisor to assist us in the preparation of a request for proposal and in the selection of an independent investigator. The selection process will be managed by a subcommittee of the Board which includes two community members.

Second, with the assistance of the Mid-Atlantic Equity Consortium, we will begin a long-term Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Assessment Program. This program will include robust dialog and shared learning opportunities with and between students, staff, parents and guardians, community members, and stakeholders, with regular reports to the Board and to the public as the program is implemented.

In order to assist in keeping the community informed, the District will be posting events, articles, and notices on the RSU #21 website under “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.”

The RSU#21 Board of Directors is committed to supporting the actions described above and believes that they are necessary steps to meet the district’s objective of being a welcoming, safe and inclusive educational community.

RSU#21 Board of Directors

Kennebunk