New schools in the Prague region create a new task force to combat racism

NEW PRAGUE, Minn. — Months after allegations of racism at two New Prague-area schools’ sports games, the school district is working to bring about change, creating a task force to create a more inclusive environment.

“In February, we had a three-step process that we were going to follow to improve the culture of our school and our district,” Superintendent Tim Dittberner said.

The incidents in question occurred earlier this year – including one during a women’s basketball game against Robbinsdale Cooper High School and the other during a men’s hockey game.

According to Superintendent Tim Dittberner, an independent firm found one of those reports to be unsubstantiated, but he says there are still things to work on.

One solution, bringing together a group of diverse voices for district-wide improvements. The working group dealing with recent incidents and how to improve.

“We announced that people were applying, and more than 125 people applied to participate. We have 25 members in our working group – five community members, five staff members, five parents, five administrators and five students” , did he declare. mentioned. “We have a very diverse group of people – different backgrounds, different belief systems, different ages – spread across our 160 mile radius community.”

While several other schools in Minnesota have faced recent fallout over allegations of racism, school administrators are hoping to take meaningful steps toward fairness.

“Our goal is to provide an inclusive environment for all and meet the needs of all students,” he said.

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