Dear South Colonie Community,

We hear you. We hear the concerns our students and families have raised, and we take them seriously. The recent video containing racist language that has circulated in our community is deeply troubling. The language and behavior depicted are egregious and unacceptable. Racism, harassment and discrimination in any form will not be tolerated at South Colonie.

We expect every student to treat others with respect. We also will not tolerate threats, threatening behavior or other violations of our Code of Conduct that compromise safety or disrupt the learning environment.

While we cannot share details of ongoing investigations, several students have received disciplinary consequences. Investigations remain ongoing, and additional action may follow as we review all relevant information. We appreciate your patience as this process continues. However, we want to be clear that disciplinary actions for individual students will not be shared publicly. 

As students return Monday, we are taking additional steps to support a safe and orderly school environment. At the high school, administrators will facilitate small-group discussions to give students an opportunity to express their concerns and reinforce expectations for respectful behavior. Additional staff will be present in common areas and during class transitions to help manage student movement and the Colonie Police Department will also have an increased presence at the school.

We are aware of social media reports of a student protest at dismissal on Monday and we recognize the importance of giving students opportunities to speak up and be heard. Students have the right to express their views peacefully and respectfully, as long as that expression does not disrupt the school day or interfere with teaching and learning.

Our doors are open, and we hear what our students and community are saying. We encourage students and families to continue speaking up, raising concerns and calling out unjust behavior. We must be willing to listen, have difficult conversations and hold one another accountable.

As educators, we also have a responsibility to teach our students and give them opportunities to learn from their mistakes. Accountability and education go hand in hand. We cannot lose sight of our responsibility to help students grow, understand the impact of their actions and make better choices moving forward.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. We have compiled this Q&A to address key questions and provide additional context. 

Sincerely,

Dr. David Perry

Superintendent of Schools