Manchester School Board Member Apologizes for 'Racially Discriminatory' Remark

The Board of Education member scrutinized for racial remarks made against a fellow board member has apologized.

The Hartford Courant reported Tuesday that board member Michael Crockett issued a public apology on Monday to Ron Atwater and to Manchester for making racially insensitive remarks pertaining to Atwater — the board's only African-American member — being tardy at a board meeting.

"I have learned from this, and I hope the board can move forward," Crockett said, according to the Courant.

Crockett allegedly made the remarks on three separate occasions, prompting the board to discuss the comments during a special meeting in late May. Another board member, Deborah Hagenow, was also implicated earlier but was cleared.

The Courant reported that Atwater accepted the apology, although he issued a statement saying these types of statements are "not OK for anyone to make."

The move also draws into question the status of a June 17 hearing on the issue because Atwater accepted Crockett's apology, The Courant stated.

Monday's meeting was also the first school board meeting attended by both Crockett and Hagenow since the allegations first surfaced; a pair of uniformed Manchester Police Officers were stationed in the lobby of the Lincoln Center at 494 Main St. during the meeting as well. 

Atwater's full statement is attached to this story. 

Other stories on this subject:

• Crockett Alleged to Have Made 'Racially Discriminatory Comments' During School Board Meetings
• Special BOE Meeting Called to Discuss Alleged Racist Comments
• Board Chair Sent Letters to Crockett, Hagenow Informing Them of Misconduct