February 26, 2016

Dear Newton Community,

As you may now be aware, two incidents of anti-Semitism occurred this year at Day Middle School. The District, the Mayor’s Office, and Newton Police are working together to investigate these incidents.

Newton Public Schools are committed to creating a learning environment that is safe, welcoming, and supportive for all. Hate crimes are a direct violation of our core values and are not tolerated. We must take this opportunity to reflect upon our values, engage in dialogue, and strengthen our educational efforts.

The initial response to these incidents was not commensurate with the severity of the offense. We are, therefore, reviewing our current protocols. If we find that there is lack of clarity on what needs to happen when incidents occur, we will strengthen our protocols working closely with our principals and other administrative leaders in our schools.

Over the next few weeks, we will be meeting with the Day staff and community. We expect a productive conversation and an open process of collaboration.

Sincerely,

David Fleishman,  Superintendent of Schools

Setti D. Warren, Mayor

p.s. There was no statement by the mayor or superintendent when Newton North High School put on an anti-Asian racist play. Newton has an 11% Asian American population and Newton North High School’s Asian American population is 9%.

p.p.s. What happened exactly? My 8th grade daughter at Day Middle School said that there were two swastikas drawn in one of the boys’ bathroom stalls. She didn’t see them but heard that they were small. She said that not much mention was made to her in class by teachers or administration regarding the swastikas or anything about racism or racists acts.

Dear Day Family,

I regret to inform you that hateful graffiti was found written on a bathroom wall yesterday at Day. The police were notified immediately and are currently conducting an investigation. The Superintendent, the Mayor, and the Day faculty have also been alerted.

Such deplorable acts are unacceptable, will not be tolerated, and do not define our inclusive school community. If you or your child has any information about the person who may have committed this offense, please contact the police immediately. Information can be submitted to the Community Services Bureau at 617-796-2103 or via the anonymous tip line at 617-796-2121.

As I described in an earlier message, we have begun a series of discussions with students, faculty, and community to strengthen our educational efforts to combat anti-Semitism and insure a supportive learning environment. I met with the Day staff earlier this week, began a series of conversations with students yesterday, and look forward to hearing from you at the forum for Day parents on Wednesday, March 9th at 7:00 p.m. or at the Parent-Principal coffee on March 11th at 8:00 a.m.

Many of you may be aware of media reports of the incidents here at Day. I thank you for supporting our students and school as we address these incidents and discuss ways in which we can come together as a community.

Sincerely,

Brian Turner

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