The following letter has been sent to parents and guardians:
Dear Parents and Guardians,
On the afternoon of December 17, 2024, our safety monitor discovered vandalism during routine bathroom checks on our MS/HS campus. This included a racial slur and a swastika. We want to ensure you are informed of the incident and the actions taken by the district.
The offensive symbols and words were immediately removed, and an investigation was launched by Security Monitor Vince Foley. Shortly after, a middle school student was identified as responsible for the vandalism. Middle School Principal Brianna Olsen and Secondary Assistant Principal and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Liaison Cathleen Goodwin met with the student and their family to address this behavior. In accordance with our student Code of Conduct, all appropriate disciplinary actions are being taken.
At VCSD, we are unwavering in our commitment to fostering a school environment where every student feels safe, respected, and valued. Acts of racism, hate, or discrimination are in direct opposition to the inclusive community we work diligently to build and maintain. While no students were ever in physical danger due to this incident, the emotional and psychological impact of such behavior cannot be overstated. These actions are unacceptable, and we take them with the utmost seriousness.
Administrators and staff will remain steadfast in reinforcing our message that any form of racism, discrimination, or harassment is intolerable in our school community. We will continue to employ restorative practices to educate students about the impact of their words and actions and to foster healing and understanding.
We continue to encourage students to inform a trusted adult if they see or hear anything concerning. Additionally, we remind all students and families that concerns can be safely reported through the Safe School Helpline, which is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Thank you for your continued support in ensuring our schools remain a place of belonging, respect, and inclusion for all. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the building principal.
Sincerely,
Brianna Olsen, Middle School Principal
Lisa Cardillo, High School Principal
Cathleen Goodwin, Assistant Principal and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Liaison