Carmel responds to racist Snapchat post

Officials at Carmel Catholic High School in Mundelein said they met with student groups Monday after a female student used a racial epithet in a Snapchat post.

Fox 32 Chicago reported the school issued the following statement:

"Earlier today, Carmel Catholic High School provided a statement to our school community in response to an offensive social media post by one of our students. The statement emphasized our condemnation of the racist nature of the post and communicated the seriousness with which we view it. We also met with the family of the student who posted the photo and offered our help in facilitating an apology to the community.

"Although the student was very apologetic, there remain serious disciplinary actions as a result of the post. That being said, all student discipline matters are confidential and cannot be communicated by school administration. We understand the anger and sadness this situation has created within our school community.

"Although our response was united in condemnation, there are still those hurt by racism and exclusion and we are making efforts to listen. We met with student groups today to hear their thoughts and to discuss a way to provide growth as a result of this situation. Our intention is to continue sustained action that will lead toward healing and an appreciation of our diversity within our local community.

"When faced with an incident like this, we do not simply respond with short-term goals in mind; rather, we use what was a negative action as a growth opportunity for our students. Our school community will come together and encourage a stronger student culture as a result."