ADL Contacts LCUSD Over Alleged Ethnic Slur

The Anti Defamation League has sent a letter expressing concern over allegations that a high school teacher used an ethnic slur to refer to her geometry student. 

"We've let them know we’re here to be of assistance if necessary,'' Alison Mayersohn, ADL's senior associate director told Patch Tuesday, adding the organization is concerned about the allegations, and reiterated the term "allegations.''

The , came to light following school board member Cindy Wilcox's complaint to the district that math chair Gabrielle Leko referred to her honors geometry student as "Jew boy.'' The slur allegedly occurred last school year during class.

Wilcox said she filed the complaint as a member of the public because she "couldn't stomach this,'' Wilcox told Patch Wednesday.

"It became clear to me that parents were not going to file, and this appalling situation needs to be addressed.''

When asked what kind of assistance the ADL could provide, Mayersohn said the agency offers anti-bias training programs for teachers, students and families that "can help districts when faced with issues like this.''

Since Patch's story about the complaint, many students and other members of the community have shared their thoughts about Leko and the alleged incident. You may read their comments here. 

District Superintendent Wendy Sinnette released a statement last week that said administrators are "taking the necessary and appropriate steps to investigate this matter fully.'' The district's full response can be viewed here. The . 

Regarding the letter, Sinette told Patch Tuesday she had not received an email, and that she would look for a letter in the mail. Sinnette went on to say:

 "The District has close ties to the ADL. They have in the past brought their A World of Difference institute anti-bias and cyberbullying trainings to our schools. These trainings have occurred as a part of the District's pro-active commitment to promoting and securing empathy, justice, and anti-bias in its educational environment.

"I would reiterate that the District takes the allegations very seriously and is taking all the necessary and appropriate steps to investigate the matter fully.  But, again, as fact finding proceeds, we urge that the parents and community keep an open mind until the review process is completed.''

Patch has not been able to reach Leko for comment.