Parents and community members are expressing outrage at Bunnell Elementary School in Florida after its new principal, Donelle Evensen, held a controversial assembly targeting black students’ test scores. The assembly, which included only black students regardless of their performance, sparked concerns of racial insensitivity and fear.
During the assembly, fourth and fifth-grade black students were informed that their test scores were below average and were warned about the potential consequences, including the risk of ending up in jail, getting shot, or even killed. This approach left parents and students upset, questioning the motives and appropriateness of the assembly.
One parent voiced their concern, stating, “It became racial for me when they included and boxed all of the black children together no matter if they were below average, average or above average.” Parents reported that their children felt anxious and burdened by the negative messages delivered in the assembly.
While the principal offered the incentive of a meal from McDonald’s for improved scores, the attempt to motivate students through fear and potential consequences was widely criticized. Critics argued that such an approach is not only detrimental to students’ mental well-being but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
All the black students were told ‘the problem’ is that they are underperforming (Source: Dailymail)
The controversial assembly took place against the backdrop of Governor Ron DeSantis’ “Stop Woke Act,” which has stirred discussions on education and race in Florida. However, local officials stressed that the assembly was solely the school’s decision and not influenced by the state’s political climate.
The school district’s interim superintendent, LaShakia Moore, met with Principal Donelle Evensen to discuss the assembly. In a statement, Moore acknowledged that there was no malicious intent but emphasized the importance of understanding why certain boundaries exist, cautioning against thinking “outside the box” without considering the implications.
While the assembly has raised questions about the methods employed by the school to address student performance, it has also highlighted the need for thoughtful and sensitive approaches to education, particularly when addressing diverse student populations. The incident has prompted broader conversations about race, education, and the role of schools in fostering a positive learning environment for all students.
