Investigation into Discriminatory Practices in Upper Dublin

In a complaint filed on November 23 with the U.S. Department of Education, a group of African American parents in Upper Dublin contend that the local school district uses discriminatory practices that result in higher out-of-school suspension rates for black students and disproportionately place black students in lower level curricular programs. Concerned African American Parents (CAAP) alleges the district is violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and asks the Department to conduct a full investigation and require remedy of the problems. CAAP has also filed its complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

CAAP believes that a full investigation by the U.S. Department of Education, which can get access to more data sources, will reveal the disparities in starker terms. CAAP is asking the Department to perform compliance reviews of the district’s disciplinary proceedings, force the district to eliminate reliance on harsh out-of-school suspension practices, abolish the curricular tracking process, and require other corrective action as warranted by the investigation.

Case Progress

October 2019
Concerned African-American Parents and Upper Dublin School District reach settlement, creating equitable academic and disciplinary policies

December 2016
US Department of Education decides to investigate the complaint

November 2015
We filed a complaint with the US Department of Education for Civil Rights.

November 2015
We filed a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

Case Progress

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