Swastika found scrawled on piece of art at Riverhead Middle School

Interim Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Pedisich says the district immediately opened an investigation into this matter.

News 12 Staff

Nov 20, 2023, 11:01 AM

Updated 385 days ago

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School officials say another symbol of hate has been found at a Riverhead school.
Parents received a letter on Friday that a swastika was found on a piece of art at the middle school.
Interim Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Pedisich says the district immediately opened an investigation into this matter.
“Any form of antisemitic or discriminatory symbols, speech or actions are reprehensible and unacceptable in our schools and community. Unfortunately, these acts are not just limited to the Riverhead community, as incidents of this nature are occurring across Long Island and throughout the country at elevated rates. We are committed to condemning this behavior and taking action to prevent such occurrences from happening in the future. We are steadfast in our development of fruitful learning environments where every student feels safe and respected and is taught to appreciate all religions, cultures and backgrounds,” said Pedisich.
School officials say in the coming weeks, they will be establishing programming, events and lessons throughout all of the schools on acceptance and inclusion.
In addition, at Riverhead Middle School, students will be taking part in an assembly next week with community advocate Joselo Lucero that is centered on teaching students how to treat others with dignity and respect, combat discriminatory actions and bullying and embrace diversity.