03/13/2026
Recently, our office was contacted regarding a concern from a parent about an
inappropriate comment made by a teacher to several students related to the auctionof an enslaved person. Upon receiving this information, we immediately shared our concerns and findings with Mark Sheer of the Niagara Gazette. Following his investigation and contact with Superintendent Mark Laurrie, the district determined there was sufficient cause to suspend and ultimately terminate the teacher involved.
The NAACP firmly believes that racist comments have no place in the classroom
or in our society.
In light of this situation, we are conducting an additional investigation to determine
whether this incident was isolated or indicative of a broader systemic issue within
the school district. We are also working to support the affected family and are
seeking further discussions with district leadership to ensure that hiring practices,
as well as cultural competency and sensitivity training for educators, reflect the
values of our city and school community.
We encourage any student or parent who has experienced discrimination within the school district to contact us through the NAACP Niagara County page, the NAACP (Niagara County) website, or by contacting us directly using the
information below. We are committed to addressing any concerns brought forward
by students or families promptly and seriously.
Phone: 716-525-6475
Email: naacpniagarafallsbranch.com
Educational Chair
Tony Riley, Ed.S.
