Mundelein High student's earrings spelled a racial slur
Disciplinary action has been taken against a Mundelein High School student who was filmed at school wearing six small earrings that, when put together, spelled a racial slur.
The eight-second video appeared Tuesday on social media platforms, including Snapchat and Twitter. One person shared it with Mundelein High School Principal Anthony Kroll on Twitter, and he responded by saying school officials would investigate.
School spokesman Ron Girard confirmed to the Daily Herald the girl in the video is a Mundelein High student and the clip was made on campus.
Superintendent Kevin Myers said school administrators don't tolerate racially insensitive conduct.
"We will continue to be diligent in our efforts to make sure all students feel safe and supported at Mundelein High School," Myers said.
In a letter sent to parents, Myers said that under the school's discipline standards, "the minimum consequence for racially-motivated misconduct typically is suspension from school."
For the past two years, the school has been working on its core values of equity, growth and collaboration with students, staff and the community to increase focus on a need for a respectful and inclusive school community, he wrote in the letter.
The clip drew strong responses from some social media users, including current and former Mundelein High students.
"Seeing this, I am incredibly shocked, disgusted and embarrassed," Mundelein High alumni Anu Harris said on Twitter. "Take action."
Mundelein High alumni Emily Vastis talked about the video on Twitter, too.
"It's honestly just so disappointing to see something like this and I hope it brings up the topic of diversity and acceptance at Mundelein," Vastis said.