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Parent alleges racial slurs; board hires independent investigator for HIB complaints
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Summary
During public comment a parent accused students and the district's HIB process of failing to address repeated racial slurs; the board voted to hire Christina Steffner for an independent investigation (not to exceed $6,100) and explained the HIB appeal process for parents.
A parent addressed the Mount Olive Township School District board during the second public-comment period, alleging repeated racial slurs directed at her child and describing delays and unsatisfactory outcomes in earlier HIB (harassment, intimidation and bullying) investigations.
"The child called my son the n-word three times," the parent said, describing three incidents and expressing frustration that earlier investigations were recorded as unfounded and were delayed. She said only after a student admitted the slur did the district impose a brief disciplinary consequence.
Board President (Chair) and Superintendent Dr. Banjo responded on the record, outlining the district's formal appeal rights: parents may appeal an HIB finding to the full board within 60 days of notice of the outcome, at which point the board will review investigation materials in closed session with the superintendent, HIB coordinator and building administration present. The board encouraged the parent to file any outstanding appeals so the board could review the evidence directly.
Following closed-session discussion, the board approved an action item (10.2) appointing Christina Steffner to conduct an independent investigation pursuant to the proposal terms, in an amount not to exceed $6,100. The motion passed by roll-call vote with all members voting yes on the item.
The board said that an independent investigator is intended to provide an external review of disputed investigations and that appeal hearings to the full board may also be pursued by parents.
