St. Louis, Missouri – Following a disturbing incident involving the brutal attack of a teenage girl by another student, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has opened an investigation into the Hazelwood School District. Bailey expressed concerns about the district’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and their potential role in the safety failures that led to the violent assault.
Bailey emphasized the need for transparency from the school district, stating that they owe an explanation to parents and the community regarding the impact of these programs on student safety. However, the school district has been reluctant to cooperate with the investigation, leading to tensions between Bailey’s office and school officials.
A spokesperson for the Hazelwood School District defended their actions, accusing Bailey of spreading misinformation and resorting to intimidation tactics. The spokesperson also disputed the circumstances surrounding the attack, claiming that it did not occur during school hours or on school property, challenging Bailey’s assertions about the incident.
In response to the school district’s claims, Bailey reiterated the importance of following Missouri’s Sunshine Law, which requires public entities to provide requested records within a specified timeframe. The attorney general emphasized the need to uncover the facts surrounding the incident and determine whether the district violated Missouri’s Human Rights Act.
The investigation has raised questions about the school’s commitment to student safety and its handling of racial issues within the community. Bailey and the school district have engaged in a heated exchange, with both sides standing firm on their positions regarding the investigation and the events leading up to the assault.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on holding the school district accountable for its actions and ensuring the safety and well-being of all students. The outcome of the investigation will shed light on the effectiveness of DEI programs in promoting a safe and inclusive educational environment for all students.