"I asked them how do you think that makes me feel as an African-American principal? Yes, I spoke about white privilege," he said, adding communication is a significant problem in the district.

White is aware he has a number of grievances filed against him by teachers but calls many of them minor. He said he's had disagreements with the superintendent, who is Caucasian, but also notes he is the fourth principal in the last five years. Harding is in his second year as superintendent, following a string of others.

Harding said attorney Bugalla asked Lyles if he and White would consent to the school district's releasing all information and details about why White is on suspension, and they refused.

"We asked them this after they met with the media," Harding said. "Until that happens, I can't talk about what happened. I can't comment. It's a personnel issue."

However, Harding also said it's a serious situation and is under investigation.