March 14, 2025

Dear Weston Families,

It is with deep concern and disappointment that I write to inform you of another act of anti-Semitic vandalism at Weston Middle School. A student drew a swastika on a desk in a World Language classroom where sixth and seventh graders study. This is the second incident of this nature at Weston Middle School, and it is both troubling and unacceptable.

To say that I am disheartened by this ongoing behavior is an understatement. Every student and staff member has the right to feel safe and respected in school. Acts of hate have no place in our community and stand in direct opposition to the values we uphold as a district. Despite our previous efforts to educate students about the seriousness and harm of such actions, it is deeply concerning that these incidents continue.

The Weston Middle School administration, in collaboration with our school resource officer, is actively investigating this incident. Identifying those responsible and enforcing appropriate consequences remains a priority. While previous investigations at both Weston Middle School and Weston High School have been challenging, frustrating, and unsuccessful, we remain committed to holding individuals accountable.

Last week, the Weston Middle School administrative and counseling teams met with a representative from No Place for Hate to take the necessary steps toward becoming an officially recognized No Place for Hate school. It is clear that we must move this initiative forward with urgency this spring.

These incidents are a stark reminder that we must continue to work together at school and at home toward our common purpose of making our district a safe place.  Thank you for your partnership in this important work. Mr. Walters’ letter to WMS families is below.

Sincerely,

Lisa Barbiero

Superintendent of Schools

 

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Weston Middle School

 

March 14, 2025

Dear Weston Middle School Families,

I am writing to inform you about an incident that was reported at school this afternoon. A student alerted a teacher that a swastika symbol had been drawn on the top of a desk in a World Language classroom. The teacher reported this to me, and I immediately began to conduct an investigation in collaboration with our school resource officer. Please know that we are taking this matter very seriously, and we remain committed to fostering a school environment where all students feel safe, respected, and valued.

Hate symbols have no place in our school or community. Acts of bias and intolerance, whether intentional or not, contradict our core values and expectations for all students. On Monday, March 3rd Principal Doak and I met with the CT Education Director from the No Place for Hate program, sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). Our plan is to coordinate a spring event around this serious topic.  We must create a school culture where all students feel seen, valued, and empowered as positive members of our Weston Middle School community.

Please continue to have these important conversations at home and remind students of the impact that words, actions, and symbols can have on others.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership.  If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to me.

Sincerely,

Dru Walters

Assistant Principal

Weston Middle School