Montessori school apologizes for racial slur in newsletter

CYPRESS, Texas - A Montessori school in Cypress is apologizing for a newsletter that went out to parents that contained a racial slur.

School apologizes for ‘disrespectful phrase’

What we know:

The newsletter contained a paragraph that read, "Have fun reading with your child – it’s one of the best gifts they will ever receive! Sometimes just spending that quality academic time with your child one on one in the comfort of your home can be equal to if not greater than the academic authorization of a real n------ b-----."

Lycee Montessori School in Cypress has acknowledged and apologized for the "disrespectful phrase" that was sent out.

What we don't know:

The school says they don’t know how or why this occurred but are "taking this matter very seriously."

What they're saying:

Lycee Montessori School released the following statement on Wednesday: "We are deeply saddened and disheartened by the recent newsletter that was sent out containing inappropriate verbiage as our school is built on the values of diversity, inclusivity, and respect for all. This language does not reflect who we are as a community. Immediately upon awareness of this disrespectful phrase being distributed, a sincere acknowledgment and apology letter was sent to all recipients. At this time, we do not know how or why this occurred, but we are taking this matter very seriously. It is deeply unsettling to think that someone would seek to undermine the principles for which our school stands. We are beyond sincerely apologetic for any harm or discomfort this may have caused our students, families, and staff. Our commitment to fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment remains unwavering."

Parent ‘shocked’ and ‘appalled’

What they're saying:

"I was really shocked. I was appalled. Of all places to see this type of wording, I didn’t think it would be my daughter’s Montessori school. So also very confused in how it got there," parent Jenet Dove says.

"We have asked the administration to do an investigation to identify the individual who put this type of language within the newsletter and to have them removed. We don't want someone working at our child's school having access to this, our child who is thinking like this. Even if it's a joke, who thinks this is a good joke to make," Dove says. "That's not appropriate. And because the director of the school said that they're unable to identify this person, unfortunately, we do have to remove our child because I can't keep them there in good faith."