In this article, the author focuses on the crisis of verbal pollution in our society. "Verbal pollution" refers to the use of words and comments that the majority agrees are offensive, are damaging, and may lead to the deterioration of social institutions. Verbal pollution encompasses hate speech, such as the derogatory words used by Michael Richards, Dog the Bounty Hunter, and Don Imus. Using the example of a large, urban, secondary school, the author suggests that the pollution seen on a macro level throughout society has taken root in the educational system. The author proposes a multistep program of action to reduce the pollution. Without serious intervention, verbal pollution will spread, making the already difficult process of educating nearly impossible.