Earlier today we reported that Wootton High School Principal Douglas Nelson has been placed on leave following an incident where a racial slur was found written on a student’s desk, according to a report by ABC7. MCPS Spokesperson Liliana Lopez confirmed that “the principal has been placed on leave.” but did not provide any additional details. As far as we are aware, this his not been communicated to the Wootton community. Since that report, earlier today, a new letter has been sent to the Wootton community informing of an allegation that a staff member used the N-word when discussing the incident from Monday, December 3rd. The full letter to the community, sent by Chief of Schools Pete Moran, can be seen below:
Good afternoon, Wootton High School families,
This message is to inform you that this afternoon students reported to their administrator an allegation that a staff member used the N-word. On Friday, December 6, 2024, it was alleged that during seventh period that a substitute teacher said the N-word when discussing the incident from Monday, December 3, 2024. An investigation was immediately begun, and the incident was reported to the MCPS Department of Compliance and Investigations to further determine the facts and administer consequences in accordance with the MCPS Employee Code of Conduct.
This behavior is not acceptable at Wootton. As communicated in the community message sent Sunday night, racism in any form, including discriminatory and derogatory language, will not be tolerated in Montgomery County Public Schools. Racism, and the hateful behaviors and actions that accompany it, stand in stark opposition to the shared values that we strive to uphold across the district and the values that I know the Wootton community shares.
Our administrative team leaders will fully investigate and address these incidents of racism and share our next steps as they progress. We will continue to work with community members and advocates to incorporate incident information and responses into ongoing discussions, training, action planning, and future community dialogue sessions.
The Wootton community is one that strives for inclusivity, respect, and safety for all. Let’s continue the work together to promote practices and principles that support and value everyone.
In the past couple of days I have had the opportunity to meet many incredible individuals who care deeply about fostering a welcoming and respectful environment at Wootton and I look forward to continuing my work with this great community.
Sincerely,
Peter O. Moran Ed.D.
Chief
Office of School Support and Improvement