Dear Editor:
I'd like to provide some important clarifications to your Oct. 3 story, Yearbook Slur Still Haunts Argyle Grad, regarding the offensive entry recorded in Mr. Robin Tomlin's 1970 high school annual.
In actual fact, Mr. Tomlin has received very genuine, sincere and repeated regrets from the school district regarding the matter of the yearbook entry. Further, our conversations and correspondence with Mr. Tomlin have focused on ensuring we take the necessary action to revise the yearbook, including replacing the text from 1970 to his satisfaction. This work is underway now and Mr. Tomlin will receive 20 copies of the amended page from the annual, which will also be replaced in the school library as soon as it is available.
As regrettable as this situation is, it does underscore the progress our society has made since 1970 regarding respecting others and creating safe and caring school environments. As is happening in all our schools, Argyle secondary's staff and students have created many positive initiatives towards enhancing the quality of the school experience for all students. These efforts should be commended, as they have made a real difference over time.
Throughout the process of righting this wrong of 42 years ago, the school district has endeavoured to maintain the confidentiality of our communication with Mr. Tomlin, and we will continue to do so. However, it's important to note that Mr. Tomlin received a communication from the school district this week that expressly stated that we are sorry the yearbook was published with this entry in 1970. As well, Mr. Tomlin has received an invitation for a private meeting to provide this apology to him in person. I hope this helps to convey the extent of the effort we have made towards a resolution of this very serious and sad situation.
John Lewis, superintendent of schools North Vancouver school district
(Editor's note: A formal apology and the offer of an in-person meeting were made to Mr. Tomlin on Oct. 4, the day after the North Shore News story and editorial were published.)
