24/03/2025
Dear ABRHS Students, Families, and Staff,
Unfortunately, I am writing to share information about two antisemitic incidents that recently occurred at our high school. We want to be clear that these incidents are completely unacceptable, profoundly hurtful, and antithetical to the values of respect and inclusion we uphold as a school.
In sharing information about these two incidents, it is important to remind you that we also recently wrote about three previous antisemitic incidents occurring in January and February (See District Letter). This pattern is deeply concerning. Additionally, in the past year in particular, there has been a significant rise in antisemitic acts nationally. We implore everyone in our community to stand together with us to support Jewish students, staff, and families and create a more inclusive environment at ABRHS.
Specifically, the two most recent incidents are:
March 6, 2025: A student reported that another student made N**i salute arm gestures.
March 11, 2025: An educator reported a sw****ka drawn on a wall in the back corner of a classroom.
Students or staff reported both incidents to administrators, and investigations were conducted. We identified the student who engaged in the first offense and responded with disciplinary measures and educational interventions. Unfortunately, we have been unable to determine who was responsible for the antisemitic vandalism. It is important for us to know when these incidents occur, and we strongly encourage all students and staff to report any such incidents to the administration.
There is no easy or quick solution to eliminating such incidents. That remains our goal, and we firmly believe education is essential. We have planned assemblies in April right after our Break for students to learn about and discuss appropriate, inclusive behavior to disrupt hate and bias. Administration, Counseling, and A World of Difference Student Leaders will run these assemblies in Grade Level Assistant Principal Groups. Additionally, our dedicated staff will continue to discuss and be trained to recognize and respond to incidents of hate and bias.
In conclusion, these incidents are deeply unsettling. As always, students and families are encouraged to reach out to counselors, administrators, and teachers should they need support or want to talk about these incidents. We appreciate your commitment and partnership as we work to combat antisemitism and eliminate all incidents of hate and bias in our schools. We remain steadfast in our commitment to work together to ensure this is a safe and inclusive environment for all.
Sincerely,
Joanie Dean
ABRHS Principal
