Also posted to the Melrose Public Schools Website.

For Immediate Release

Friday, Jan. 15, 2016

Media Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Statement of Superintendent Cyndy Taymore Regarding the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights Findings

MELROSE — Superintendent of Schools Cyndy Taymore issues the following statement:

“This week, I received formal notification that the Office of Civil Rights had completed its investigation into a deeply unfortunate incident that occurred during the 2013-2014 school year. I would like to thank the staff at OCR for their diligent work in this matter and for their continued support as the Melrose Public Schools heal from this chapter in our history and continue to come together.

“The findings, combined with the Resolution Agreement reached by Melrose Public Schools and OCR in December, give us the framework we need to successful​ly address the concerns of the Office of Civil Rights and the community​​​. We are completely dedicated to upholding and realizing the conclusions set forth in the December agreement.

“While the incident in question involved employees who no longer work in the district, I acknowledge that much work remains. As superintendent, that commitment starts at the top. I am committed to ensuring that no student ever faces institutional discrimination based on their race, skin color, religion, origin, or any other demographic. We have already put a number of policies and programs in place over the past two years, and we will continue to announce additional programs and training initiatives meant to ensure that the Melrose Public Schools are welcoming and inclusive for all.”

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