By Lynn Moody

Recent events have brought to light the intolerance that sadly continues to exist in our country. 

The Rowan-Salisbury School System remains strong in support of our African-American families who are hurting and disappointed with what has occurred. For the sake of our children and families, hope for a better America must continue to be the ultimate goal for all of us. We are stronger together than we are separated. 

It is beyond tears of sadness and anger that our children are witnessing the civil displays of bigotry, shame, violence and hatred. These are very scary times for our young and impressionable children. These are times that call for us — the adults who our children look up to for guidance, reassurance and love — to step forward with loud voices that we will not tolerate these acts of separation. We must let our children know that we are united to support their formative years of developing into contributing individuals.

Inclusion is one of Rowan-Salisbury School System’s core values. Therefore, we denounce injustice, racism, discrimination and bigotry in both its individual and systemic forms. Within our school system, we are committed to working towards a more collaborative environment which requires honest dialogue across schools, within departments and with families. We face these recent events with a renewed obligation to provide an extraordinary educational experience that is accessible to all students.

I humbly acknowledge the hurt, grief, fear, frustrations and struggles that we have witnessed and heard from those in our community. I pray for the family of George Floyd and so many other families who have had to deal with senseless violence against the African-American community. I am willing to be a part of any productive conversations/actions that are focused on matters of hearts and minds to move us in a positive direction.    

As we heal from this turbulent time of unrest, we will move forward with stronger hearts and compassionate voices. Let’s pull together to make this a better world for our children to learn, grow and become leaders for justice and promoters of equity among all human beings. 

Lynn Moody is superintendent of Rowan-Salisbury Schools.