Bastrop ISD ‘Welcomes’ Investigation Into Discrimination Allegations
Bastrop ISD Superintendent Steve Murray says the district embraces "the diverse nature of our district and see it as a strength and benefit to all involved." Nathan Bernier, KUT NewsIn a letter to parents titled “BISD Welcomes OCR”, Bastrop Independent School District Superintendent Steve Murray says his school district welcomes an investigation from the United States Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR).
The investigation is over allegations that Bastrop ISD has practiced “class-wide discrimination” against African-American and Hispanic employees and students.
The complaint claims the discrimination was evident in “terminations, demotions, hiring, promotions and working conditions.”
Murray’s letter says the complaint also points to several specific incidents. While his letter did not elaborate on what those incidents were, Murray did say Bastrop ISD has already investigated some of them.
KUT reported on an incident back in October 2010 during which a Bastrop man alleged hiring discrimination.
“We take all allegations or claims regarding discrimination against students or staff very seriously and we fully investigate such when brought to our attention in the proper or prescribed manner,” Murray said in his letter.
The complaint to the OCR was filed in August 2011.
