Gig Harbor student removed after racial incident during basketball game at Lincoln High

A racially charged incident occurred during a boys basketball game between Gig Harbor and Lincoln high schools, resulting in the ejection of a Gig Harbor student who made an offensive remark towards a Lincoln player. The Peninsula School District condemned the behavior, stating it does not align with the district's values and community standards. This incident is part of a troubling pattern of racism within the district's sports programs, with previous incidents including a racist comment made during a football game and a prior investigation involving a girls' basketball player. The district expressed deep disappointment over these recurring issues and recognized the need for systemic change. Moving forward, the Peninsula School District has vowed to tackle these problems more effectively, promising transparency and accountability in their efforts.

The statement from the district aims to reassure the community of their commitment to creating a safe and respectful environment in school sports. The ongoing confrontations with racism highlight a significant social issue that the district must address, emphasizing the importance of educational institutions setting a standard against such behavior to foster inclusivity and respect.