Round Rock Principal Accused Of Racism

ROUND ROCK, TX — The principal of a Round Rock high school was placed on administrative leave Monday amid allegations of racism and discrimination, according to a news report in KVUE.

Before the principal, Veronica Coss, was suspended, a former teacher and a secretary resigned in protest, according to a Facebook post and the news report. The alleged comments from the principal were directed at black, immigrant and transgender students at Early College High School, KVUE reported.

Evelyn Nevarez, who worked as Coss's secretary for more than two years, made her allegations public in a Facebook post accompanied by a video showing a teacher, Stephanie Martin, previously addressing Round Rock ISD trustees. Martin also quit her job.

Nevarez wrote that her decision to go public was due to inaction by Round Rock ISD in addressing the matter.

"I resign from RRISD after 10 years and lost so much because I could no longer handle or witness the discrimination from the current principal of RRISD Early College High School, the way she treated and talked about African American, immigrants and the LBGT community," Nevarez wrote. "I am the first one who filed the complain back in April & as you can see from this RRISD board meeting yesterday 9/26/19 nothing has been done. The comments made by the current principal of Early College High School are disgusting & caused me to go into anxiety attacks because I could not help the students."

Nevarez described the emotional turmoil the principal's words and actions have brought: "I am literally in tears right now because evil never wins and other brave teachers are now speaking up about the discrimination going on at RRISD Early College High School as you can see on this video one of my former coworkers also came forward. NEVER IN MY 10 yrs with RRISD did I witness anything like this. Please continue to pray that all comes to light."

In response to the controversy, Round Rock ISD released a statement:

"As a school district, it is our goal to provide a safe and supportive environment for all students. Round Rock ISD does not and will not tolerate any form of discrimination in our classrooms, schools and facilities.

"As this is a personnel issue, and an ongoing investigation, we do not comment on specific details. What we can share is that in accordance with our practices, for the protection of all those involved we place employees on leave when appropriate to complete the investigation.

"We take all reports of discrimination seriously. When we receive reports regarding our employees, we conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation, which includes speaking to witnesses who are available and willing to participate. If evidence supports allegations, we will take appropriate action."