School Board may give Garcia warning

Terry Webster

Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2000 | 11:21 a.m.

The Clark County School Board may give a verbal or written warning on Thursday to Superintendent Carlos Garcia for his use of a derogatory racial term during a radio talk show.

Board members say they are resisting pressure, however, from community members who want Garcia fired.

Garcia told the Sun he wants to bring closure to the issue and is willing to meet with the School Board in a closed session in order to do it. The closed session is expected to take place as an off-shoot of the board's regular public meeting Thursday.

After being on the job for less than one month, Garcia came under fire for saying, "Niggers come in all colors and a nigger is someone who doesn't respect themselves or any others."

The remark originated during a radio interview with several black high school students and later aired over numerous radio and television stations.

Garcia has repeatedly apologized, noting that his comment was meant to condemn racism.

School Board member Shirley Barber, who is calling for the closed session, said she will likely ask for a verbal or written warning.

"I think he should be reprimanded," said Barber. "I think this warrants it. We can't just ignore it. I also think we need to issue a written directive for what will happen if this ever takes place again."

Barber said she will not ask for Garcia's resignation.

Board member Ruth Johnson agrees that Garcia should receive a warning. She said she reached that conclusion after listening to the interview tape and taking comments from the public.

"We have to do something but we have to be sensible about it," said Johnson. "I've been going back over his contract to see what kinds of limitations we have placed on him. But I'm not so sure I'd be willing to throw all of this away and start the (superintendent) search process all over again."

Johnson added that she hopes the closed session does not create more frustration in the community, because the public will not be able to hear what was said.

By contrast, board member Susan Brager said she is not seeking any punishment for Garcia.

Brager said she stands by Garcia's apology and his contention that the comment was not intended to deliberately hurt anyone.

"It's an ugly word and I don't like it," she said. "But I think he will show that he will do what is best for all children. I think the district and the board will show that, too."

Board member Lois Tarkanian said there are other serious issues the district needs to focus on.

"I think we need to move on to other things," said Tarkanian. "There are other issues that are extremely important, like student achievement and the dropout rate. I think we need to discuss how we feel about it and then let (Garcia) know. He just came to Las Vegas and there has been a lot of disappointment about what has happened in the past. Maybe, and with justification, people are willing to jump on this. But we're coming up on a new school year and we need to get on with it."

Board member Sheila Moulton said she is still gathering information and will make a comment Thursday.