Angelica Ramos
Contributing Writer
MONTGOMERY CO. – The Montgomery County Public School Board held discussion on the new proposed Student Code of Conduct during their July 30, 2024 meeting.
The board read through and proposed changes to the Code of Conduct. These changes included changes to language, removing sections, and adding clarifications to the Code of Conduct. Some of these changes simplified language for clarity. For example, under the Teacher Responsibilities section, it originally read “1. To teach and model for students expectations for classroom behavior.” Now, after the changes it will read “1. To teach and model expectations for classroom behavior for students.” This is to provide clarity for the students and parents who will be reading this and signing off that they understand the Code of Conduct.
A major concern for the Board was that the Code of Conduct needs clearer language on hate speech and discrimination. Early on in the meeting, during public comment, many students, parents and community members spoke on the rampant use of racial slurs and other words that spread hate speech. Students shared their experiences in their schools that have made them feel isolated, hurt, frustrated and a list of feelings that come with hate speech being spread. The students and families addressed the school board, saying that this needs to stop and needs to be paired with more education on why these words, like the n-word or the f-word regarding LGBTQ+ individuals, have been historically used to harm others. This clarity in language also extends to the consequences of hate speech in Montgomery County Public Schools so that students, parents and educators are clear and informed.
“Even now, just walking in the halls,” current Christiansburg High School Senior, Raven Smith said, “ if you aren’t paying enough attention, you can miss how often the n-word is said. This is not the only experience I’ve had. People in my family and other families have to deal with this issue.”
During the review read, Board members shared those same sentiments. Board Members Penny Franklin, Jamie Bond, Dr. Steven Rountree and others agree that the Code of Conduct is where addressing Hate Speech should start, as parents and students have to read it and sign it. The board requested more clear and specific wording toward hate speech not being acceptable behavior, whatsoever, in Montgomery County Public Schools.
“We need to include,” Rountree added, “the c-word and b-word when referring to women. The f-word when referring to our queer community.”
These edits and changes will be applied to the current draft of the Code of Conduct and will be continued to be discussed until all changes are made.
