RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE SCHOOL DISTRICT

RECOMMENDATION #1

Prohibit the display of the Confederate flag and other hate symbols on the premises of the Onalaska School District. We propose adding this policy to the student handbook and ensuring its strict enforcement by teachers and administrators. 

Implementing this policy will create a safer and more inclusive environment for all students. Students, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds, should not have to experience fear or discomfort caused by symbols that represent hate while focusing on their education.

RECOMMENDATION #2

Incorporate mandatory racial bias training for all staff. These trainings will empower educators to become leaders in fostering inclusivity and equity. Recognizing and addressing racial bias is a critical first step in enabling the Onalaska School District to reach its full potential and ensure a positive, supportive learning environment for all students. This initiative will help educators grow into powerful role models and trendsetters, benefiting the entire student body. 

RECOMMENDATION #3

Update U.S. and World History textbooks to include critical perspectives on race as an integral part of U.S. history. This recommendation aims to present a more accurate understanding of the role race has played in shaping the nation. By using textbooks that incorporate anti-racist principles, we can better prepare students for life beyond Onalaska, equipping them with the knowledge and awareness necessary for success in their future careers or higher education. 

RECOMMENDATION #4

Provide age-appropriate books on race (K-12) in every classroom and include them as part of assigned readings. Early and consistent exposure to discussions about race will have a profound and lasting impact, helping students develop the ability to engage in respectful and productive conversations about this critical topic. By fostering these conversations from a young age, students will acquire valuable skills that will serve them well when interacting with diverse communities beyond Onalaska. 

RECOMMENDATION #5

Provide additional staff support for student leaders in ASB when planning race-based assemblies. Change within a student population often starts with its leaders, and offering guidance to help them navigate difficult conversations around race can transform the school’s overall environment. Empowering student leaders to address these important topics will foster a more inclusive and respectful atmosphere throughout the school community. 

RECOMMENDATION #6

Align student handbook violations more closely with Washington State laws. While school is a place for learning and growth, it’s important that students understand the real-world consequences of their actions. We recommend handling certain violations with greater care, helping students recognize the seriousness of their behavior and how similar actions would be addressed outside of school. This approach will encourage accountability while maintaining a supportive learning environment. 

RECOMMENDATION #7

Clearly define what constitutes protected expressions of religious, philosophical, or political views in the student handbook. 

We recommend clarifying the boundaries to ensure hate speech does not become confused with or accompany religious, philosophical or political speech. This will help maintain a respectful and inclusive environment while safeguarding students' rights to free expression. 

RECOMMENDATION #8

Restructure staffing and hiring procedures by implementing the following:

Include Scenario-Based Questions: Integrate at least one scenario-based question in interviews to assess a teacher's ability to handle racially charged situations in the classroom effectively.

Conduct Administrative Sit-Ins: Perform administrative sit-ins in classrooms with a focus on identifying and addressing racial bias.

By intentionally addressing race in the hiring process, we signal to prospective and current staff that equity is a core value of the Onalaska School District. Administrative sit-ins will serve as a check and balance, ensuring that all educators maintain the high standards of inclusivity and respect expected within the district.

RECOMMENDATION #9

Add questions to the annual student surveys specifically asking whether students have experienced or witnessed racial discrimination within the classroom. Students are often the best witnesses to these issues, and providing them with a clear avenue to report such instances will help ensure their voices are heard. This addition will also establish a baseline for the District to track and improve upon over the years, fostering a more inclusive and responsive educational environment. 

RECOMMENDATION #10

Annually assess all students' understanding of the process for filing a racial discrimination claim. Ensuring that students are aware of the procedure and know there is administrative support available can be transformative. It will reassure students that they have advocates who will stand up for them and help address any instances of discrimination they encounter.