CONCORD — The Concord-Carlisle Regional School District has reached an amicable agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice that resolves the Department’s review of a complaint related to antisemitism and harassment in the district.

 

The agreement includes no finding of liability or wrongdoing by the district, which cooperated fully throughout the Department of Justice’s investigation.

 

The agreement outlines steps the district can take to enhance its identification, documentation, and response to instances of harassment based on religion, race, or national origin, including antisemitism. Many of the steps included in the agreement are building on the work the district has already begun to address antisemitism and ensure all students feel safe and welcome in Concord-Carlisle schools.

 

Over the past year, the district has already taken several steps to combat antisemitism. Some of the steps taken include conducting staff training on the reality of contemporary antisemitism, student education on bias and respectful language, anti-bias education for middle and high school students, working with parents and the community through an antisemitism coalition, as well as community forums on the issue. The district also received a hate prevention grant from the state to continue education and prevention efforts.

 

The steps outlined in the agreement include updating district policies, improving procedures for documenting and investigating reports of harassment, expanding staff training, providing age-appropriate education for students about antisemitism and reporting concerns, and designating a district-level compliance officer to oversee responses to harassment complaints.

 

"Antisemitism and harassment of any kind have no place in our schools," said Superintendent Dr. Laurie Hunter. "We take these issues seriously and have already taken important steps to strengthen how we address them, including staff training on antisemitism, expanded student education, and clearer reporting and investigation procedures. This agreement builds on that work and helps ensure we continue supporting a safe and respectful learning environment for every student. We appreciate the Department of Justice’s work and guidance throughout this process."