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Statement from the Office of Catholic Schools Superintendent Dr. RaeNell Houston:
Meeting with the Fennidy Family and its Representatives

New Orleans, LA (August 27, 2018) – Earlier today, the Fennidy family postponed and then ultimately cancelled
today’s planned meeting with the Office of Catholic Schools and principal of Christ the King School.

Last Thursday, Christ the King Elementary School notified the Fennidy and Davis families that it had rescinded the
portion of its uniform policy having to do with hair extensions.

The school’s principal and pastor also welcomed the girls to return to school. When this issue arose, the school
immediately reviewed its policy and recognized that there may have been sensitivities that needed to be
addressed. They then reached out for input from the Office of Catholic Schools, the Office of Black Catholic
Ministries, other principals, and parents.

As we move forward, I will work with Christ the King School and all of our archdiocesan schools to create a uniform
policy that is sensitive to all races, religions, and cultures.

I personally called the Fennidy parents last Monday, and again on Tuesday, to request a meeting with them. Since
then, we have continued to request a meeting and remain open to such. The girls were welcome to return to school
last week, and it saddens me that the parents have chosen not to bring them, or to meet with us to discuss the
situation.

Christ the King School is rich in cultural diversity, and we value that gift. As a parish, Christ the King embraces unity
that fosters respect for each person.

About the Archdiocese of New Orleans: Impelled by Christ's call and inspired by the Holy Spirit through
the work of the Ninth General Synod, the ministries of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, in union with the
Archbishop and with one another, serve the people of the parishes, schools and organizations of the
archdiocese in enabling them to encounter Jesus and to witness with joy. The Office of Catholic Schools
of the Archdiocese of New Orleans provides leadership, service, support and direction to the Catholic
school community. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we follow the example of Jesus, the Master
Teacher, in our ministry to evangelize, catechize, and educate in a caring, efficient, and collaborative
manner.

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