Black children made to play slaves in mock 'auctions' at New York school, attorney general investigation finds

'We are committed to implementing all items outlined by the attorney general to help us deepen our cultural competence,' says Chapel School

The lesson was found to have a 'profoundly negative effect' on students (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A school where a teacher held mock "slave auctions" for classes of 10 and 11-year-olds has agreed to improve its diversity measures following a state investigation, according to the New York attorney general's office.

The incident occurred at the Chapel School, a private Christian school in Bronxville, New York, in March. Investigators say that black students in two classes had been asked to leave the classroom and stand in the hallway where the teacher placed imaginary chains or shackles on them.

A simulated auction was then said to have been held in front of the class with white students acting out buying black children.

"The investigation found that the teacher's re-enactments in the two classes had a profoundly negative effect on all of the students present — especially the African-American students — and the school community at large," the attorney general's office said.

The deal struck with the school involves a number of measures including hiring a chief diversity officer approved by New York attorney general Letitia James as well as ensuring a more diverse student body and staff.

The school — where annual fees approach $14,000 (£11,000) — also agreed to commit new financial aid to help that aim. A new code of conduct will also be drawn up addressing subjects such as racial and ethnic discrimination and harassment.

“Every young person — regardless of race — deserves the chance to attend school free of harassment, bias and discrimination,” Ms James said in a statement. “Lessons designed to separate children on the basis of race have no place in New York classrooms, or in classrooms throughout this country. I thank The Chapel School for agreeing to take measures that directly address the issues of race, diversity and inclusion at the school."

The teacher at the centre of the investigation Rebecca Antinozzi has denied that a simulation of a slave auction took place.

"The history lesson has been falsely characterised, and many portions of the lesson as reported did not occur," her lawyers Cuddy and Feder have said.

The school initially placed the teacher on indefinite leave, but later terminated her employment.

"We accept responsibility for the overall findings [of the state investigation], and we are committed to implementing all items outlined by the attorney general to help us deepen our cultural competence," Chapel School principal Michael Schultz said in a statement.