 AB Community,
I am writing to make you aware of several incidents of antisemitic and racist vandalism that occurred at ABRHS over the last few days. The message from Principal Dean below provides details of the incidents and our response. This is obviously unacceptable and violates the values we hold as a school community. We have protocols in place as a district for responding to incidents of hate and bias in our schools and have been working with the high school to ensure we follow those protocols. You can read more about our procedures on our district website. These incidents are troubling and we remain committed to combatting all forms of hate and bias speech in our schools. Sincerely, Peter Light
Dear ABRHS Students and Families,
I am writing to address recent incidents involving racist and antisemitic language and symbols in two bathrooms at the high school. The messages and symbols found are profoundly hurtful and antithetical to the values of inclusion and respect we uphold as a school.
Specifically, the incidents are as follows:
On Tuesday, October 7, at the end of the school day, students reported graffiti to teachers in two separate boys’ bathrooms. The messages were identical and included the n-word, a swastika, and profanity. There was an additional swastika found near one of these messages. These incidents were reported by students to school staff.
Today, October 9, midday, an administrator found a swastika in one of the same boys’ bathrooms.
We are following our District Protocols for Investigating Incidents of Hate and Bias. As part of this protocol, we:
Documented the vandalism
Notified the Acton police
Convened our school crisis team to identify supports for students and staff
Put in place a process to check inside all bathrooms at the end of each period
We commend those who reported these incidents, and we encourage all to report incidents of hate and bias. We are continuing to investigate and have not yet determined the individual or individuals responsible. We encourage anyone with information to bring it to their assistant principal, counselor, or another trusted adult.
These incidents are deeply unsettling, and we take them very seriously. We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of our community. We want to provide support and care to all students and individuals affected by these incidents. Students may reach out to their counselors, assistant principals, and trusted adults for support.
We appreciate your commitment and partnership as we work to address racism and antisemitism. We remain steadfast in our commitment to work together to ensure AB is a safe and inclusive environment for all.
Sincerely,
Joanie Dean, ABRHS Principal
|