St. Thomas High School condemns "political correctness and racial scapegoating" in letter by board of directors

The following letters were released by St. Thomas High School's board of directors – the first describing an upcoming initiative to attract and retain students of color, and the second in response to backlash from certain members of the community opposed to these measures. These measures were taken in part, if not entirely, to increase the number of applicants and, ultimately, the number of students enrolling at the school after a decrease in enrollment. The language used in the second letter, specifically "political correctness" and "racial scapegoating" is an obvious dog whistle for members of the community that would prefer STH remain the predominantly white institution it has been since its inception. The third letter included in this post is the letter sent in 2013 in response to allegations of sexual abuse by a St. Thomas High School priest and faculty member. In comparing the language used in the second and third letter, it is clear that STH had no problem changing their stance on diversity when it became inconvenient, but is unwilling to use similarly strong language against a member of their own clergy and faculty accused of sexual misconduct. The letter released by the board of directors yesterday (5/6/2021) is a slap in the face to the school's faculty, staff, students and community members of color, and should be retracted by the board. I encourage you to share this information with anyone you know who might consider sending their child to this school.