In light of recent events reported in The Columbian newspaper, I want to be clear about my position as superintendent of schools. Racism in any form is wholly inconsistent with our mission, values and beliefs. It cannot be tolerated. Vancouver Public Schools is working very hard as an organization to promote equity and justice for our students, families, employees and community.
As an adoptive father of a multiracial family, I know this: The feelings of pain and hurt felt by many people in our community are real. We must endeavor together to work toward creating a more just and humane world. The children of our school district and community deserve nothing less.
Mr. Stoker is an elected official with a 13-year history of service to our district. It is his responsibility to respond to concerns about the comments he made on his personal social media account.
Sincerely,
Steven T. Webb, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Update: Board director resigns from Vancouver Public Schools