Bristol County DA counsel investigation concerning racist comments made during three school virtual meetings

MANSFIELD — Superintendent of Schools Teresa Murphy reports that the Mansfield Public Schools and Mansfield Police Department, in consultation with the Bristol County DA’s Office, are actively investigating after an individual made racist comments during three school-hosted virtual meetings with students present on Thursday morning.

On Thursday, Nov. 12, an individual gained access to three Mansfield High School Google Meets. The individual made racist, vulgar and offensive comments, at which point teachers immediately closed the meeting and notified administration. At no time was the individual visible on camera.

“We decry the obscene statements made by this individual and apologize to the students and staff for the highly unwelcome and upsetting interruption to their class session,” Mansfield High School Principal Mary Watkins said. “The statements that were made run contrary to the very core of our values at Mansfield High School. If any student who was witness to these incidents needs support, I encourage them to reach out to an administrator or other trusted adult for counseling or assistance.”

“We will work diligently with students and staff to make sure this type of incident does not happen again,” Superintendent Murphy said. “We will review protocols and our security measures.”