Group pushes for programs on diversity, tolerance at MCHS

Group pushes for programs on diversity, tolerance at MCHS

October 25, 2001

by Aspen C. Emmett
Journal Staff Writer

In the wake of an allegedly racist comment made by its principal, Montezuma-Cortez High School needs programs on diversity and courses in Indian culture, several students and citizens suggested at an emotionally charged meeting Monday evening.

Some 50 concerned students, citizens and school-board members gathered for the student-organized forum.

According to the forum’s organizer, Kevin Kaime, a Montezuma-Cortez High School student was suspended for a day and a half for using the term "Navajo gypsies" last week — two weeks after the principal allegedly used the same term in a faculty meeting while discussing student mobility and low CSAP scores.

Rappe reportedly made an apology later for the remark over the school’s inter-circuit television, but administrators have declined comment on any disciplinary measures that have taken place or might be taken.

Kaime said he has been approached by several people who advised him to drop the issue, but he feels that racial tensions in the schools need to be addressed head-on and openly in the community at large and that administrators should be held to the same standards as students.

The group approached the school board Oct. 9 with their concerns but were told they needed a first-hand witness to the faculty meeting where the statement was made in order to be heard by the board.

Monday, the group discussed obstacles they have encountered trying to get a faculty member to speak up about Rappe’s statement.

"They’re scared to death of him," Kaime said. "They say they support us but they’re not willing to risk their jobs."

The students are currently attempting to get on the agenda for the November board meeting.

Also Monday evening, some citizens criticized the administration’s response and voiced the opinion that Rappe should be fired or at least put on leave for "a few days off to think about his actions."

Cortez resident Chris Caldwell suggested the group of students contact the ACLU or the Colorado Department of Education for help.

"If they (Re-1 administrators) don’t put him in check, go to someone who can," Caldwell said.

Re-1 Superintendent Bill Thompson said that because it is a personnel matter, the board would not be at liberty to comment on any disciplinary actions regarding a district employee.

Kaime said the goal of the student group is not necessarily to get Rappe fired, but rather to encourage the school to implement diversity and tolerance programs as well as classes that highlight Native American cultures.

"I don’t want to see punishment," he said. "I want to see action."

One Navajo student said Rappe’s comment hurt her pride and self-esteem. Her primary concern was to get more cultural awareness in the schools by reviving the Native American Club and pushing for courses on Indian cultures.

"I want to hold my head up high," she said. "I want to share my culture, and I know there are lots of students who want to learn about it."

County resident Chuck McAfee suggested to school-board members at the forum that they "take advantage of the situation" to improve the schools and encourage student involvement.

"Don’t put them (students) on the defensive," he said. "Coach them and help them. There is a ton of common ground here."

Board member Jackie Fisher said she sympathized with the group’s concerns about implementing cultural education and recommended the group utilize the high-school accountability committee to help bring about change.

"I support you," Fisher told the students. "I’d like to help you be productive and move forward. You just have to ask me."

The student group will meet again before the next school-board meeting to discuss the points they wish to make at the meeting and appoint a spokesperson. The meeting is open to the public and is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 6, at 6:30 p.m. at Empire Electric.