The Lee County chapter of the NAACP is calling on the school district to end what they call racial disparities within the school system.
The organization filed a complaint with the Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights in September saying students of color are more likely than white students to be suspended, expelled, or put into alternative education programs. It also says they're less likely to be enrolled in gifted programs or graduate.
The NAACP said since that complaint was filed in September, they've seen no changes within the district.
In Tuesday's meeting, the NAACP said it wants the district to abolish suspensions and find away for restorative justice in school, host listening sessions in communities most impacted, and provide equity training for all staff and teachers.
"2018 needs to be the year of racial equity in our schools. We will not rest until the board and Superintendent show long-term commitment to ending the school-to-prison pipeline," NAACP Education Director Dr. Shirley Chapman said.
The NAACP said they would consider legal action but hopes it doesn't go that far.
A District spokesperson said the Superintendent is committed to working with the NAACP and they're working cooperatively to reach an agreement that will satisfy the interests of all involved.
