South Colonie schools moved quickly after a racist video featuring students spread online. At a recent board meeting, trustees approved a 90‑day, $20,000 contract with The McLean Collective to help the district build cultural humility, equity and a more inclusive environment for all students and staff.
What the contract will cover
Superintendent Dr. David Perry explained that the partnership will provide training for educators, practical tools for handling classroom conflicts, and structured restorative circles for both students and staff. The McLean Collective will facilitate small‑group sessions aimed at repairing harm and rebuilding trust.
Community response
While the board praised the initiative, several parents voiced concerns that the measure does not go far enough. Colonie resident Andrew Isom said the community is prepared to take the next step and urged the board and district leadership to be held accountable. He questioned what would happen after the 90‑day period, asking, “Do we just go back to the same conduct? Do we just sweep it under the rug?”
More than 300 signatures have been gathered calling for Superintendent Perry’s removal, with critics arguing that the disciplinary response to the students in the video was insufficient. The district has confirmed that the boys involved were disciplined for violating the code of conduct, citing privacy laws, and reports indicate they received three‑to‑five day suspensions while remaining eligible for sports participation.
Next steps
The district plans a community forum on November 18 at 6:30 p.m. in the Colonie Central High School gym, facilitated by The McLean Collective. The forum will allow families, students and staff to discuss the restorative circles, share concerns and explore ways to strengthen the school climate.
“Our most critical responsibility is to ensure every student feels safe, supported and valued,” Perry said. “By partnering with The McLean Collective, we are taking deliberate steps to listen deeply, repair harm where needed and strengthen our school climate from within.”
About The McLean Collective
Kathleen McLean, founder and CEO, said, “Culture changes one person at a time—when people feel valued, they stay, they grow, and they do their best work. I’m honored to partner with South Colonie to build that kind of culture, because when the adults in a district thrive, students do too.”
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.
