LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WHAS 11)--A principal of Louisville's Manual High School has been given a letter of reprimand following comments he made to African American students regarding national anthem protests.
The comments from Principal Gerry Mayes were recorded.
Parents tell us that he said students were "jumping on the bandwagon" and "sensationalizing kneeling".
The school system is also doing an audit and culture review of the school.
In response, Mayes released this apology:
I recently met with two students in my office. In an open discussion with them on a variety of topics, which was recorded without my knowledge, I unfortunately used illustrations to make a point that included colleagues’ names. I apologize for this mistake on my part.I am deeply committed to diversity and inclusion. They have been pillars of my life personally and professionally. We at DuPont Manual High School are committed to open discussion of what can sometimes be sensitive issues. In this conversation, at one point, I was trying to challenge my students to broaden their perspectives on such issues. In the rush of this conversation, I may not have always communicated exactly as I might have hoped. I believe that the sum substance of what I said in that conversation, however inartfully I may have said it, is consistent with my commitments to diversity and inclusion. I regret that anyone may have a contrary impression.
At Manual, we raise thinkers who question and challenge. I am proud of our students, their activism and their commitment to do what’s right. I have learned an important lesson from them – to listen more and talk less.