Accusations of Discrimination

Abstract

In Accusations of Discrimination, a high school principal is faced with an escalating crisis over a racially charged incident on campus. In the case, charges of racial discrimination against the school and one of its administrators triggers public outcry, media attention, faculty dissention, and an investigation by the U.S. Office of Civil Rights. This series of events challenges the principal’s leadership and understanding of the law in areas relating to media access to campus, student confidentiality, and collective bargaining. The case can be presented as a problem-based learning activity that requires students in teams of four to six to provide accurate memorandums, a mock interview, and the conduct of a community meeting.