East Bay school investigates allegations that teacher used a racial slur

An East Bay teacher has been placed on administrative leave and students have staged a walkout to protest the teacher’s alleged use of a racial slur.

The Summit K2 charter school in El Cerrito launched an investigation into the allegations last week and placed the teacher on paid administrative leave until the investigation is over, which is the school’s policy, according to a statement released by Shilpa Duvoor, the executive director of the school.

Duvoor condemned “inappropriate, insensitive or hateful language of any kind” in the statement.

Posts on social media showed a few dozen students standing outside the El Cerrito school on Tuesday during a walkout to protest the teacher’s alleged use of the racial slur. The school serves middle and high school students.

Summit k2 protest against racist teacher #k2protest https://t.co/WIyK53HEgd — Daniel Rodriguez (@DanielR88395307) August 28, 2018

Read Duvoor’s complete statement below:

K2 has a zero-tolerance policy on inappropriate, insensitive or hateful language of any kind. The school immediately launched an investigation once it became aware of claims made by students about inappropriate language used by a teacher. The teacher in question has been put on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

Our top priority remains the physical, social and emotional well-being of all of our students. Students have to feel safe in order to thrive, and that’s why K2 prioritizes inclusiveness and cultivating a culture of respect for all cultures, ethnicities and religions. We will not stand for disrespect in any form or of any kind.

We are committed to encouraging dialogue among our students and making this a moment that we can all learn and grow from. We are confident that with open and respectful communication, we will come out stronger as a school community.

Ashley McBride is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: ashley.mcbride@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ashleynmcb