Decatur High School principal, teacher under investigation, reassigned to different schools

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — City Schools of Decatur leaders announced that a high school principal and teacher had been reassigned to a different school while they conduct an investigation.

CSD Superintendent Dr. Maggie Fehrman sent a letter to Decatur High School staff, students and families that addressed an incident where a teacher used a racial slur in his classroom.

It is unclear what the specifics that unfolded when the incident occurred.

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“I want to let the DHS staff, students and families know we have heard you,” Fehrman wrote. “A great deal has already been learned from the situation in December when a DHS teacher used a racial slur, and we know we still have much learning and growth ahead of us to ensure trust is restored and harm is repaired.”

Fehrman said the district hired a third-party contractor to investigate the teacher, John Chestnut, who said the slur, and to assist with rebuilding equity work within the community.

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While under investigation, Fehrman said both Chestnut and DHS principal Rochelle Lofstrand had been reassigned to other schools.

According to the statement, Fehrman wrote that Lofstrand was reassigned to maintain objectivity during the investigation.

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“The third-party consultant will evaluate the response of the school and district, review processes and procedures, and conduct restorative sessions with students and staff to help our district heal,” Fehrman wrote. “The contractor will also collaborate with district leadership on putting a clear process in place that will not only streamline the process for reporting racially biased events, but will also provide a clear response protocol for our leaders to follow.

Fehrman added that Duane Sprull would serve as interim DHS principal.

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