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Advocates Push for Resignation of East Aurora School Board Member Due to Accusations of Racially Prejudiced Remarks

Community leaders demand the resignation of Mayra Reyes, a board member in East Aurora School District 131, due to accusations of racially offensive comments she supposedly made.

Demand for East Aurora school board member's resignation arises due to accusations of racially...
Demand for East Aurora school board member's resignation arises due to accusations of racially insensitive remarks.

Advocates Push for Resignation of East Aurora School Board Member Due to Accusations of Racially Prejudiced Remarks

In a recent development, community leaders in the East Aurora School District are demanding the resignation of School Board Member Mayra Reyes. The calls for resignation come in the wake of allegations of an "unwelcome environment within the district," a matter that was acknowledged by the district superintendent.

During an interview for a vacant school board position, the district superintendent expressed his desire to continue monthly discussions with community leaders to ensure all students and staff are supported. He also mentioned that they have been actively analyzing historical trends and community feedback to foster an equitable and respectful environment for every student and staff member.

The controversy surrounding Mayra Reyes stems from comments she allegedly made a year ago during a closed meeting. These comments, which resurfaced in a recording from the meeting, were about the district's dual language program. People at Monday night's meeting called Reyes' words regarding the program insensitive and unfair to Black students.

Mayra Reyes publicly apologized for her comments on Monday night, admitting that she did not respond to the question with the sensitivity and care it warranted during the closed meeting. She also apologized for causing hurt and frustration, stating it was never her intention to offend or discriminate. However, the Quad County Urban League President and CEO, Theodia Gillespie, stated that the apology came a year late.

The district superintendent, acknowledging the allegations, stated that improving the climate and culture of the district remains one of his highest priorities. He also emphasized the need for systemic changes within the district to allow for a more inclusive environment. The district is currently working on such changes.

The district board president, Juan Sifuentes Jr., stated that making the district where every student is able to thrive and staff members feel like they are at home is something they have to do together as a community. He admitted that the road ahead to repair the district is not easy, but necessary.

DuPage County NAACP President Michael Childress emphasized that representation matters and what one says matters for the good of children. A speaker at Monday night's meeting emphasized the need for representation that serves the entire community, not just one race.

As of now, Mayra Reyes has made no indication of resigning from her position based on her statement on Monday night.

What You Can Do

To confirm whether Mayra Reyes holds a political position in the East Aurora School District, you can:

  1. Visit the district's official website.
  2. Search local newspaper archives.
  3. Check political election results and city administration records.
  4. Explore social media or local forums, if Mayra Reyes is an active community figure.

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