Five 14-year-old students at Schreiber High School were reported to be involved in a bias incident, with the district referring to it as an issue of racism, antisemitism and bullying.
“Racism, antisemitism, and bullying in any form have no place in our schools or in the Port Washington community,” Superintendent Michael Hynes said in a letter.
The district did not share the details of the incident, but Newsday reported that it concerned conversations between the group of students where the racist, antisemitic and bullying statements were made through texting and talking with one another. Those exchanges were then overheard by school officials who reported it.
Schreiber High School Principal Kathryn Behr was not available to speak with Blank Slate prior to publication.
In his letter, Hynes referred to the incident as “disturbing” and expressed concern for the well-being and safety of the students and community members.
“These incidents are in direct opposition to the values and principles that guide our district’s vision, mission, and Portrait of a Graduate we strive to cultivate,” the superintendent said in the letter.
Hynes said the district took immediate action when they learned of the incident, contacting local law enforcement.
“We take these matters seriously and an immediate investigation was conducted with full cooperation of the Port Washington School District,” the Police Department said in a statement.
The Police Department assured residents that the incident had not sparked any threat to the school or the Port community.
The police said there appeared to be no criminality related to the incident.
The Port Washington Police Department said they were continuing to work with the school as they address the issue internally. Hynes said the district cannot comment on individual student disciplinary action, but said the students involved will be disciplined and “receive appropriate consequences in accordance with the district’s Code of Conduct.”
“We believe that education plays a pivotal role in combating hate and promoting tolerance,” Hynes said.
The superintendent said the school will continue to partner with the Holocaust Tolerance and Museum Center, as well as other organizations.
“Our district remains dedicated to fostering an environment where diversity and inclusivity are celebrated, and where all members of our community feel safe and valued,” Hynes said.
