Rochester City School Board Commissioner James Patterson has accused fellow commissioner Isaiah Santiago of repeatedly using a racial slur against him and has filed a petition with the New York State Department of Education for Santiago’s removal.
Santiago, the youngest commissioner in the district’s history, denied the allegations, calling them “unfounded and deeply offensive.”
He claimed that Patterson exhibited inappropriate and discriminatory behavior toward him on February 2.
While the education department confirmed receipt of Patterson’s petition, it did not disclose if an investigation will occur.
Patterson has chosen not to comment further until the board appoints a new superintendent, while Santiago has declined interviews, sticking to his written statement.
The Rochester City School District has not responded to inquiries for comment.
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