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Parent tells board her six‑year‑old was racially harassed at two schools, asks for action
Summary
At public comment, a Napa Valley Unified parent said her six‑year‑old endured racial harassment at two district schools, that the district moved the child rather than holding others accountable, and that she has filed a formal complaint and sought NAACP support.
A Napa Valley Unified parent, Danielle Tilman, told the school board on April 28 that her six‑year‑old child suffered repeated racial incidents at two district elementary schools and that the family's efforts to obtain accountability have so far resulted in the child’s displacement rather than consequences for the alleged perpetrators.
"My six‑year‑old was the only one who had to leave. No one was held accountable," Tilman said during public comment, describing a pattern of racial taunting and a school response she called inadequate. She said the behavior continued after the child was transferred and that her daughter now has therapy and "nightmares every week." Tilman said she has filed a formal complaint and "the NAACP is involved." She asked the board to act with urgency: "My daughter deserves better. Every child deserves better." (Parent’s remarks captured verbatim in transcript.)
After Tilman spoke, President Chu asked Dr. Ready to connect with the parent to "confirm that you're aware of the complaint." The board did not discuss or vote on any action at the meeting; trustees pledged to have staff follow up. The district representative on the dais asked staff to contact the family and confirmed that the formal complaint had been filed.
Why it matters: The comment raised questions about how the district responds to allegations of racial harassment, what remedies are used to address incidents, and whether the family and student supports are adequate. Tilman said independent study was arranged for the child but described that as an insufficient response because "it is a response to a problem that still exists." She asked the board to ensure the district uses its authority to protect students and pursue accountability.
What comes next: District staff indicated they would follow up with the family and the submitted complaint; the parent said she has sought external advocacy through the NAACP. The board did not take immediate action at the meeting but staff follow‑up and case review were requested.
