Update on Petition Asking Coronado Schools to Address Racism

Dear Supporter,

Thank you for signing the petition asking Coronado Schools to Address Racism. We received over 4,500 signatures from students, teachers, alumni, and community members showing widespread support for the Coronado Schools to take action against racism. Since this petition launched, there have been several encouraging actions:

1) Superintendent Mueller and the Coronado School Board made a public statement condemning racism in our schools

2) The Coronado School Board directed the creation of an action plan to address issues of equity, diversity, and inclusivity in Coronado schools with a two year time frame

3) The Coronado Times ran a series of “Local Voices” articles focusing on different viewpoints and race relations in Coronado

4) A new community group, InclusioNado, was formed to continue the dialogue with the Coronado Unified School District. Please consider signing up to become a member of InclusioNado and be updated on their ongoing efforts

5) The Coronado School Board announced a change to the school’s Discipline Action Guide to specifically include the use of biased language including racial slurs as an offense that leads to consequences

6) Over 100 Coronado community members have displayed InclusioNado’s “Diversity Matters Here” lawn signs around town

7) On September 9, 2020 the Coronado School Board will attend a workshop with the Director of Equity for the San Diego County of Education to discuss specific policy changes that will be part of the equity action plan

8) During Fall 2020, the Coronado School District will form a committee of stakeholders to further the equity action plan

Unfortunately, we also have to share that a second, counter petition was circulated in Coronado asking the school board to “reject immediate implementation of an action plan to initiate systemic change in CUSD” as they considered the stories of racism to be personal grievances. While this petition received around 260 signatures, two supporters of this petition are candidates for the upcoming Coronado School Board elections. If you are eligible to vote in Coronado, please research the candidates so your vote can support the candidates that encourage diversity and equity in our schools.

The hard work of implementing real change in Coronado is just beginning. Thank you for your support that encourages us all to create a more inclusive and welcome Coronado.

Chloe Berk, Paula Martinez, and Phina Bustos