Wyoming Community Reacts After Minnesota High School Staffer Accused of Repeatedly Using Racial Slur Toward Students
A staff member at East Ridge High School in Woodbury, Minnesota, has been placed on administrative leave after being accused of repeatedly using a racial slur while speaking to students — sparking outrage not only in the Twin Cities but as far as Wyoming, where educators and families are also grappling with how to handle racism in schools.
According to a letter sent to families by Principal Jim Smokrovich, the incident occurred during a conversation in which the staff member was addressing inappropriate comments made by a student. However, during that discussion, the staffer allegedly used a racial slur multiple times.
“Understandably, students were very upset by the use of this language,” Smokrovich wrote. “We are grateful to the students who had the courage to speak up and bring this matter forward, and we are committed to upholding the values of East Ridge.”
Smokrovich confirmed that the staff member was immediately escorted from the school building after students reported the incident. He also extended a “sincere apology” to students and families for what took place.
This isn’t the first racially charged incident at East Ridge. In November 2023, a racially motivated fight in a school bathroom — caught on video by students — drew widespread attention and prompted district-wide discussions about equity and safety.
In response to the latest incident, South Washington County Schools officials confirmed the employee has been placed on administrative leave while an investigation is ongoing. The district stated that administrators have already contacted the families of the affected students.
While this event occurred in Minnesota, it has sparked conversations in communities across the country — including in Wyoming — about the responsibility of educators to create safe, inclusive learning environments and how school districts should respond to discrimination in all forms.
