‘It’s trendy to do and say racist stuff’: Parents call out racist bullying at College View Middle School

OWENSBORO, Ky. (WFIE) - A widely circulated video of a College View Middle School student has been making the rounds on Facebook, prompting some parents to speak out about their child’s experience with racist bullying at the school.

Parents claim the clip shows a student saying an offensive slur and miming using a whip.

One College View parent Ashley White says the video provides a glimpse into bullying targeting minority students that has been going on at the middle school for years. She says her own child has been a target.

“Kids actually make paper whips,” White said. “They’re also carrying around an app on their phone called a pocket whip, and they’re actually using it to make a whipping sound towards her and to other kids in the school.”

White says black students are commonly targeted in this way, though she says Hispanic students have also victim to other racist treatment.

“It really is mind-blowing for her, for my daughter, to experience this at her age. She’s experienced more racism than I ever have in my lifetime, and that is truly sad,” White said.

White’s family is not alone in experiencing this kind of bullying. Another College View mother who asked to remain anonymous says her daughter has repeatedly been the target of racial slurs while at the school.

“The N-word, monkeys, all the racist slurs that you can think of,” she said. “She’s complained every day that she’s been called the N-word to her teachers and counselors at school, and nothing’s been done.”

The mother says she’s reached out to school leadership and the school board to report these incidents and hasn’t received a phone call back.

“I just feel that my voice is not being heard and they’re just sweeping it under the rug,” she said.

The mother says part of the problem lies with the culture among the students.

“It’s popular, it’s trendy to do and say racist stuff,” she said.

All both mothers want to see come out of these incidents is meaningful conversation.

“I’m just hoping that the parents will make their kids aware, you know, exactly how hurtful whips, the N-word,” White said. “The powerful history behind it and how hurtful it is for my middle school child.”

Maddie McClure, public information officer for Daviess County Public Schools sent a statement to 14 News about the claims of the racist bullying:

Daviess County Public Schools unequivocally condemns all forms of racism, discrimination, and bias. Every student deserves a safe and inclusive learning environment where they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We recognize the pain and distress that incidents of racism can cause, and we are committed to ensuring that every student feels valued, respected, and supported.

In response to any behavioral infraction, we want to assure you that we are taking proactive measures to address the situation swiftly and comprehensively. Our first priority is the well-being and safety of our students, and we are working diligently to investigate any student behavior reports. This includes engaging with all stakeholders and implementing appropriate disciplinary actions as necessary. In the case of disciplinary action, no student information can be released per the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

The school staff has been informed of the student behaviors and the school safety and supervision plan has been reviewed. Students have been reminded by the administrative team of the school focus on being kind and considerate to all at all times, as well as the protocol of reporting directly to school staff or via the anonymous tip line any hateful or intolerant comments or conduct, encouraging students “If you see something, say something.” School administrative staff have met and spoken with any parent or community stakeholder reporting information of any student behavior concern.

Furthermore, it is essential to emphasize that our school district’s core belief is centered on putting Kids First. We understand that addressing issues of racism and discrimination requires collective effort and ongoing dialogue. We encourage open communication and collaboration with parents, students, staff, and community members to ensure that all voices are heard and valued.