Methacton Says Racial Slur Was Twice Discovered Written In School Bathroom This Week

LOWER PROVIDENCE, PA — A racial slur was discovered written inside a student bathroom on two separate occasions this week at the Methacton High School, according to district administration.

In a communication to families Wednesday, Methacton Superintendent David Zerbe said that the administration was notified that someone had written the slur inside a student bathroom on both Tuesday morning and Wednesday morning.

Zerbe wrote that the offensive language had since been removed and that the district is reviewing camera footage and further investigating the matter.

The exact nature of the racial slur was not divulged.

"An incident such as this, while unequivocally unacceptable, provides an opportunity for us to work together to educate our students on appropriate behavior," Zerbe wrote in the parent communication, which was also posted to the school district website. "All of our children deserve to learn and thrive in a safe environment."

Zerbe said that the administration was working with its interim supervisor at its office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to plan opportunities to engage students in meaningful conversations regarding the racial slur incidents and the district's "shared commitment to keeping our schools safe, welcoming, and respectful for all."

Zerbe stated that DEI staff would be meeting with student body representatives to address concerns and "gain a pulse on the climate."

Counselors were also scheduled to provide support to any students in need.

"All this to be a clear reminder that there is no place for hateful speech, harassment or disrespect of any kind in our schools," Zerbe wrote.