MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – A Vermont school district has reached a settlement over allegations of failing to protect a student of color.
Vermont Digger reports the $175,000 settlement involving the Mountain Views Supervisory Union — formally known as the Windsor Central Unified Union School District — is believed to be the largest in a race-based school harassment claim before the Vermont Human Rights Commission’s history. It was finalized last spring but the details just recently became available.
The investigation shows a seventh grader at Woodstock Union High School and Middle School was harassed and bullied due to his skin color and race starting in the 2021-2022 school year. Officials say despite policies in place, staff did not investigate some of the claims or intervene.
“Make sure you keep everything in email. I tell that to all folks that come to me about issues they are having in their school — is ensuring that everything is documented. That is what ultimately was able to push this case,” said Mia Schultz with the Rutland Area Branch of the NAACP.
As part of the settlement, school staff must also complete anti-discrimination training.
The district, formally known as the Windsor Central Unified Union School District, denied any liability as part of the deal.