The St. Martin Federation of Teachers has been working with members and district officials to address a concerning incident that happened on Wednesday at Breaux Bridge High School. Some teachers and school staff were told that their shirts with ‘chucks and pearls’ icons were inappropriate and they were sent home. Unfortunately, this was done in a way that allowed for no conversation or private discourse on the meaning behind these shirts, or their cultural significance.
Our political climate is rife with hostility and too many people are unable or unwilling to listen to those who disagree with them, but it is important for us to all work to ensure that this bitterness does not infiltrate our school community. In truth, these shirts were not meant to be a political statement. Rather, they were merely a celebration of an historic moment in our country’s history. I will continue to work with Superintendent Blanchard to help right this misunderstanding and ensure that every member of our school system feels heard and valued.
Additionally, we have received reports that many of you are worried about increased exposure to COVID-19 in school. I continue to ask that you please report any irregularity using our online reporting form. We will not share your personal information with the district, but we will use this information to help address ongoing issues as soon as possible. Please be as specific as possible in your reporting.
In Solidarity,
Toni Ventroy, President
St. Martin Federation of Teachers & School Employees