SHARE

Swastika Graffiti Discovered At Ridgefield High School

RIDGEFIELD, Conn. -- A swastika was etched into a classroom table at Ridgefield High School this week, according to the Ridgefield Press.

A swastika was found etched into a classroom table at Ridgefield High School, according to the Ridgefield Press.

A swastika was found etched into a classroom table at Ridgefield High School, according to the Ridgefield Press.

Photo Credit: Alissa Smith, file photo

After the discovery of the swastika, Principal Stacey Gross sent an email to parents, students and the school community, emphasizing that the vandalism is intended to offend and demoralize people, and that it is not considered acceptable behavior, the Ridgefield Press reported. She said it does not represent the values of the Ridgefield High School community, and asked others to join in denouncing hatred and intolerance, according to the Ridgefield Press.

This is the second time this year that a swastika was found graffitied at the high school. One was discovered, along with racist and anti-Semitic graffiti, back in March.

Additionally, anti-Semitic statements and symbols were also discovered at Ballard Park in Ridgefield earlier this summer.

In her email, Gross said that she would be working with the district, town leaders, clergy, student organizations and the Anti-Defamation League in an effort to explore ways to prevent this kind of behavior, according to the Ridgefield Press.

"I was saddened to learn of another incident involving a swastika at Ridgefield High School, this time etched into a classroom table," said Rabbi David L. Reiner of Congregation Shir Shalom. "I have been in contact with Dr. Stacey Gross, principal of Ridgefield High School, and her response has been meaningful, prompt, and thoughtful. Dr. Gross wrote to the RHS community this afternoon, in which she makes clear that 'those who create such statements serve to offend all of us in our Ridgefield High School community and this will never be considered acceptable behavior… This type of behavior does not represent the type of school that we strive to be.'”

Reiner said that he has been in contact with First Selectman Rudy Marconi, as well as the Ridgefield Police Department and the Connecticut chapter of the Anti-Defamation League regarding the recent incidents.

"Everyone shares similar feelings of disappointment and frustration that symbols of hatred continue to appear in our communities," he said."

He added that the Anti-Defamation League will host a series of programs at Congregation Shir Shalom, specifically for students in grades 4-12 and their families. More information on those programs will be available in the coming weeks.

Click here to read the Ridgefield Press story.

to follow Daily Voice Ridgefield and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE