Hello Socrates Family;

 

At last month’s board meeting, a Socrates parent expressed a concern regarding alleged antisemitic issues at our school. As the Board of Directors, we take such allegations seriously because we are aware of the function of school and how it reflects society. Even though this is not anything we wish, we anticipate societal challenges have the potential to be mirrored in scholars’ behaviors. The school is not isolated from society. However, we will not tolerate any acts or words of hate and discrimination. 

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In reference to what was shared by this parent, I want to clarify that our administration properly investigated the alleged incident and met with the scholars and families. When allegations are made or any incidents occur, they are promptly investigated, and consequences are based on our Student Code of Conduct. Further, interventions and preventative practices are put into place to strengthen a safe and inclusive educational environment and ensure that the core values of our school are addressed. We strive to educate our scholars and our families so they better understand why comments and actions may be hurtful to others along with the meaning of respect toward all.

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Regardless, the school administration, the specific faculty members named by the parent, and Board of Directors take these issues very seriously and have taken additional steps. We met with members from the North Carolina Holocaust Foundation and North Carolina Holocaust Council. It is evident from our discussions we have a common ground: to educate students to apply themselves in the classroom and to appreciate the diversity and recognize the divisiveness in the world today. It is our responsibility to correct any and all injustices when we are made aware of. We are guided in all our actions from our core values of social and cultural diversity, inclusion and equity and promote mutual respect. 

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As an Academy we are growing. It is anticipated that as we grow we will continue to increase in our diversity embracing different cultures, belief systems, and points of view. However, we are always driven by what is just and what is respectful acknowledging injustices when those are present and educating all to ensure a just present and future for all our scholars and staff. 

Sometimes mistakes are made unknowingly and without malice. Empathy in those instances and support with kindness may be a guide of action. I will offer an example of such an occurrence drawing from something that recently happened to me. I sent an email to board members suggesting we move our April meeting up a week to avoid meeting during spring break. Almost immediately, a board member replied that this meeting would conflict with Passover. So as not to inflame the situation further, we decided to keep the April meeting on our regular scheduled date (April 12th). My intention was not to be disrespectful and certainly I did not act in malice. This was an honest mistake and revised in a timely manner.

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As an institution, we will continue to promote our core values, among them Filotimo, Philoxenia, Ethos, and Arete. We will also continue to strive for excellence in everything we do. We are a family and no act or words of hate have a place within the Socrates Academy Family. 

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Sincerely,

John Couchell, President

Socrates Board of Directors