DENVER – The president of the Cherry Creek school board apologized Wednesday for using a “racist term” during a teacher awards banquet.
David Willman issued the apology in a letter sent to Cherry Creek Schools staff. In it, he said he became defensive after he was first confronted about the use of the word.
“I have since had time to reflect on my actions and to have conversations with people in my life, and I now understand that my words were hurtful and damaging. I own my mistake and I apologize for it,” the written statement reads.
Willman did not disclose the term he used during the Teacher Awards Banquet. Denver7 tried reached out to Willman by phone Wednesday evening without success.
“I apologize to those in the room who heard me speak, but I also apologize to all of you, because my use of racist language at a school event does not reflect Cherry Creek values,” he said in the letter.
Further, he expressed his commitment to “do what it takes to repair the damage I have caused,” and to work “toward an inclusive culture that values and respects all.”
