Monroe Local Schools superintendent Kathy Demers sent an email to parents Thursday after two high school students posted an "inappropriate" video reenacting George Floyd's death.
Demers said administrators launched an investigation "immediately" and the original video has been taken down. However, images from the video are still circulating on social media.
"One of our core beliefs as a district is that caring relationships must be anchored in honesty, empathy, and respect. We commit to fostering an inclusive educational environment where each person, student, and staff, feel a sense of belonging and are treated with dignity regardless of skin color, gender, sexual identity or orientation, religion, ability, or disability," the email reads.
Demers said she could not disclose what disciplinary actions have been taken with regards to the two students responsible for the video, but said the district "will not tolerate these inappropriate behaviors and actions in our schools."
Monroe Local Schools is a Butler County school district that serves about 2,800 students.
The students' video was posted two days after a Minnesota jury found former police officer Derek Chauvin guilty of second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. Floyd was killed in late May 2020 when Chauvin knelt on Floyd's neck. The incident sparked nationwide protests throughout the summer.
More: 'This country can rest tonight': Cincinnati reacts to Chauvin verdict
"The trial and verdict in the death of George Floyd have created a variety of emotions – anxiety, fear, and anger," Demers wrote in her Thursday letter to parents. "As educators, it is our responsibility to support and empower students through these challenging times. We are here to listen, challenge their thinking, and give them the tools they need to thrive in a diverse world and make it a better place."
Demers is retiring this summer and J. Robert Buskirk will take over as superintendent in the fall.
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