More Hateful Graffiti found in MHS

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Montcliar High School principal Anthony Grosso Principal reached out to all MHS familes tonight in order to share news that more anti-Semitic graffiti was found on site.

As most people know, Montclair has become a beacon for acceptance among all communities and races, and often is a pioneer for racial equality.

Although this 3rd anti-Semitic vandalism happened again, it is almost impossible to imagine MHS students spreading such hate while attending a school teaming with so many diverse children.

Sadly, this uptick in anti-Semitic vandalism is  growing nationally.

The Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University reports anti-Semitic hate crimes will hit an all time 18 year level in cities such as NY and L.A. 

Recenlty in Jersey City, an anti-Semitic terrorist attack occured resulting in 3 deaths. 

Updates to follow.

Please share this with your children.

Dear MHS Community, Montclair High School is a place that promotes and celebrates diversity, inclusion and respect for all of our students, staff, families and guests.

I am saddened to report that today, two swastikas and an anti-Semitic phrase were found carved into one of the plastic seats in our Large Group Instruction (LGI) area in the main building of Montclair High School.

This was immediately reported to administration by the teacher assigned to the classroom. Administration contacted the Montclair Police Department to report the symbol of hate and removed the seat from use in the area to remove the graffiti.

It is unknown when the carving was created and for how long it has been present on the seat. Montclair High School is investigating this incident in partnership with the Montclair Police Department.

This is the third act of hate using a swastika that Montclair High School has encountered this school year. This display has no place within our four walls and community. This will not be tolerated. I am troubled by events such as this, as this is an example of ignorance and calls for a stronger need for education within our school and the community.

I have been partnering with the local Montclair Clergy and participated in the sharing of my and our concern as a whole. I look to continue our partnership and explore more ways in involving our community as a call for acceptance and inclusion. We are Montclair and the fabric of our community is built upon diversity and our strength to recognize and build from it.

Please speak to your children and continue to stress the importance of these vital qualities that we hold true in Montclair. Montclair High School will be working with our community partners, the Montclair High School Jewish Student Union and the MHS Holocaust Partnership for support and resources to bring to our students an awareness of the negative impact of incidents such as this. Sincerely, Anthony Grosso Principal