Garfield Elementary School

I do not recommend this school to families of Black, Ethiopian, or African descent. Principal Kim James does not uphold Catholic values when it comes to treating all children and families with dignity and respect. Children of Black, Ethiopian, and African descent are unfairly labeled as troublemakers, even when their behavior does not warrant such treatment, and they are singled out in ways that are harmful and stigmatizing. Families from these backgrounds are made to feel unwelcome and less valued in this community. No child should ever have their race or ethnicity used as a reason to feel “less than,” especially in a school that claims to be guided by faith and Catholic values. A principal who does not view all children as equal and valuable based on their skin color should hold no position of leadership in a Catholic school.I hope the San Diego Catholic Diocese looks into these claims and makes changes to ensure better leadership when hiring principals. If we are to uphold the Gospel and spread God’s love, we must remember: God loves all His children. That is the foundation on which this school’s leadership should stand.