By Jeffery Fogg | Editor, This Is Topeka
Published: April 24, 2025
Following our recent investigative outreach to Topeka Public Schools (USD 501) regarding a series of allegations involving staff misconduct, bullying, and transparency concerns, This Is Topeka has received an official response from the district’s administration.
In an email sent to us on April 24, 2025, Dr. Aarion L. Gray, General Director of Instructional Services for the district, stated:
“The district and school administration take the appropriate steps to inform families and the appropriate agencies when an issue that requires that step occurs. Attached is our bullying policy, as the district takes all complaints of bullying seriously and takes steps to address them.”
Dr. Gray also included a copy of USD 501’s official Bullying Policy (Policy 8105), which was revised most recently in 2018. You can view the full policy here.
What the Bullying Policy Says
According to USD 501’s Policy 8105:
- Bullying, harassment, hazing, intimidation, or menacing behavior—whether by students, staff, or third parties—is strictly prohibited.
- The policy covers incidents occurring at school, on school property, in school vehicles, or at school-sponsored activities, including cyberbullying.
- Any behavior that creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive environment severe enough to interfere with a student’s or staff member’s educational environment qualifies as bullying.
- Students found violating the policy can face discipline up to and including expulsion; staff may face disciplinary action up to and including termination.
- Incidents may also be referred to law enforcement.
The district states that it has procedures in place to educate staff and students, involves the broader community, and enforces appropriate sanctions when violations occur.
Remaining Questions
While we appreciate the district’s initial response, many specific questions remain unanswered. In our original inquiry, we asked for clarification on:
- How and when parents are informed when incidents occur.
- The district’s policies regarding reassignment versus termination of staff after serious allegations.
- How prior incidents involving staff members are tracked across school placements.
- What safeguards exist when external agencies such as CPS become involved.
- How the district plans to restore public trust in the wake of multiple serious complaints.
At the time of this writing, USD 501 has not directly addressed these specific concerns.
Our Commitment to the Community
This Is Topeka will continue to push for transparency, answers, and accountability. Public education must be built on trust—and when that trust is challenged, it is essential that our community leaders respond clearly and fully.
If you or someone you know has a story to share about their experience with USD 501 schools, we invite you to contact us confidentially at [email protected].
