Nassau County School District Investigates Alleged Racial Incident at Fernandina Beach vs. Andrew Jackson Volleyball Game

The Nassau County School District is investigating reports of “racially offensive behavior” by Fernandina Beach High School students during a women’s varsity volleyball game that occurred last Thursday night. The incident, which involved students from Fernandina Beach High School and Andrew Jackson High School, has sparked concern among parents and community leaders in Jacksonville and Duval County.

The alleged behavior unfolded during the game when a photo captured what appeared to be a Fernandina Beach student holding a black baby doll. Andrew Jackson High School parent Antoinette Beckton, whose daughter plays on the varsity team, described her disbelief and anger over the incident. Beckton stated that after an Andrew Jackson player was injured, Fernandina Beach students allegedly used the doll to mock the player, saying, “Oh, she’s dead. It’s just another one. She’ll be okay.”

Beckton also noted that Fernandina Beach students wore all black to the game, despite their school colors being blue and gold. Andrew Jackson High School has a predominantly Black student body. Another parent filmed Fernandina Beach students with the doll after the game, where students mentioned having it for “parenting” and asked if it cried. The doll was eventually taken away from the students during the game.

Latavia Harris, an alumna of Andrew Jackson High School, criticized the use of a black doll, questioning any justification that it might have been for an economics class project. The incident has prompted significant community outcry and calls for accountability, resonating with city leaders in Jacksonville and across Duval County.

The Nassau County School District has not yet released further details on the progress or findings of its investigation. Residents await updates on the district's response to the alleged racially offensive behavior.