Dear SOMS Community,
Last week a letter went
home to parents indicating the steps that SOMS would take to address
the recent anti-Semitic incident. This included conversations in the
classroom, particularly in the Social Studies
classes. We provided our teachers with talking points that addressed
the issue of tolerance as a whole. Some teachers spoke specifically to
the issue while others had a broader approach.
On Friday December 2,
during the WIN period the entire 6th grade team took the time to further
discuss the issue of respect in the school. This was insightful as
many students voiced their concerns and generated
ideas for future activities.
At the same time Rabbi
Gewirtz, a SOMS parent, had previously been invited to speak with two
7th grade teams on Judaism. He too addressed the specific incident.
From these
conversations it became evident that we needed additional work and
support to help combat not only this specific incident but racism,
anti-Semitism, bigotry and anti-bullying as a whole.
On Wednesday December
7th, a meeting was held at the school with a group of local rabbis,
administration, faculty/staff and a parent to strategize and generate
ideas for developing a comprehensive plan of action.
The meeting was honest, insightful, and productive.
Immediate Response
Principal’s Town Hall Meetings with Students
Grade 6 Friday December 9th during WIN 8th period
Grade 7 & 8 Monday December 12th period 8
Goal: Recap of
the particular bias incident providing details of the language used,
the ongoing investigation, and the affect it had on students, families,
the school and the community.
Long-Term Initiatives
Student Learning (held during Advisory Classes)
Anti-bias/Anti-bullying training (staff/students)
No Place for Hate Committee (ADL)
Throughout our process
we are committing to work with stakeholders, and to confer with
advisors, who have specific experience and expertise in addressing bias
issues. We greatly appreciate your support in this.
Respectfully,
Lynn A. Irby
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