Obion Co. director of schools addresses Confederate flag on sign
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OBION COUNTY, Tenn. — The Obion County director of schools speaks for the first time about the controversy surrounding a Confederate flag being painted over on a school sign. Many in Obion County rallied around the re-painted sign Wednesday night, showing their support for the flag. Director of Schools Russ Davis released the following statement: “I would like to publicly apologize for the handling of the sign situation at Obion County Central High School. I should not have allowed for the sign to be altered without first allowing the Obion County School Board to review the situation and render a decision. I apologize to the board for not affording them that opportunity. “I appreciate all who called to express their stance on the situation and value their opinions. My first priority as Director of Schools is to preserve the safety of each student and staff on all of our campuses. If situations exist which could incite, trigger or target actions within or against our schools or students, I feel it necessary to take steps to preserve safety. Just because something has not occurred yet does not mean that it can not, or will not, happen. Everything is relative to the time and space that it occupies. The world today is different than it was just yesterday, and it will continue to change around us requiring adaptation to maintain safety in our schools. “The overwhelming positive aspect of this situation has been the demonstration of passionate support for the school. I would ask that each person continue to support the programs and students of Obion County Central High School. The students deserve nothing less than the same support and pride shown during this current situation. “The Obion County School System is a great school system that is void of many issues other systems must deal with. I look forward to moving forward and continuing to enhance the opportunities that are available to all students in the Obion County School System.” The Obion County Board of Education has called a special meeting for next Tuesday to address the issue.
