MCPS Athletic Director Releases Statement Regarding Alleged Racist and Inappropriate Language Used During Sherwood and Albert Einstein JV Girls’ Basketball Game

Montgomery County Public Schools Director of Systemwide Athletics Jeffrey Sullivan released a statement regarding an incident that occurred at a JV girls’ basketball game between Sherwood and Albert Einstein on Saturday, January 8.

According to the letter, members of both teams accused one another of making racist and derogatory comments during the course of the game.

Please see this statement regarding an incident during the Sherwood at Albert Einstein JV girls’ basketball game on 1/8/22. Racist & derogatory comments have no place in our program. We remain committed to the R.A.I.S.E. core values of @MCPSAthletics.https://t.co/NL5samNhTR

— Jeff Sullivan (@mcpsAD) January 9, 2022

Full statement:

MCPS Community,

I am writing to inform you that today we received a report of inappropriate language being used by a member of each team during the course of the Sherwood at Albert Einstein junior varsity girls’ basketball game. At the end of the game, a student from each team accused one another of making racist and derogatory comments at each other during the course of the game. To begin, we express empathy to the student-athletes impacted by this incident, as racial and discriminatory comments are in direct conflict with our R.A.I.S.E. core values of Respect and Sportsmanship, Academic Excellence, Integrity and Character, Spirited and Safe Competition, and Equity and Access. Such actions are inexcusable and individuals who engage in such behaviors are not welcome in our program.

The principals and athletics specialists at both schools, with support from central office personnel, have initiated a collaborative investigation into what transpired during and following the game. In addition to interviews and securing statements, the video from the game will be reviewed to ensure a comprehensive investigation into the alleged incident. This investigation began immediately following the game, when the allegations were raised.

We will not tolerate statements or actions that harm or discriminate against others, including by race, gender identity, or socioeconomic status. All incidents will be investigated and perpetrators will be disciplined to the fullest extent per the MCPS Code of Conduct and the rules and regulations that govern MCPS Athletics. Additionally, along with ensuring accountability and appropriate apologies, restorative practices will be initiated as appropriate.

I want all of our students, families, and communities to know that the MCPS Athletics program has and will continue to champion our R.A.I.S.E. core values.

Sincerely,
Jeffrey K.Sullivan, Ed.D. Director, Systemwide Athletics