LAS VEGAS - Clark County School Board members will meet in closed session Thursday to discuss the conduct and competence of new Superintendent Carlos Garcia.
The request for the session was made by Trustee Shirley Barber. The intent, Barber said, is to discuss Garcia's use of a racially charged epithet during a radio interview with black teen-agers.
''My main focus is trying to bring closure to the issue,'' said Barber, who was out of town last month when Garcia's comments were broadcast on KCEP-FM, 88.1
''I'm not asking for dismissal, but we can't ignore this,'' she said.
A black teenager asked Garcia what he planned to do to eliminate racism in the district. Garcia immediately took a stand against racism, but then made the controversial remark.
''Niggers come in all colors,'' Garcia said on the broadcast. ''To me, a nigger is someone who doesn't respect themselves or others.''
The closed session will take place near the end of the board's regular meeting. Barber said any action the board wants to take will be brought back to open session for a vote.
''We do need to take a position on this, even if it's a verbal warning,'' Barber said.
Garcia has apologized publicly and in private to those who were offended.
''I have no problem with holding a closed session,'' said Trustee Susan Brager. ''But I'm not looking for a reprimand. Mr. Garcia gave his apology. Let's move on. It's the best thing not just for the board and the superintendent, but for our community as a whole.''
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