Galvin middle school investigating Swastikas found in bathroom

CANTON, Mass. — Swastikas found in the boys’ bathroom at a local middle school sparked a letter home to parents earlier this week.

According to a letter from the Galvin Middle School principal, two Swastikas were found in the third floor bathroom for boys by a custodian after school.

“This incident is extremely disturbing and against our school values of creating a welcoming, safe, and inclusive community at the Galvin Middle School,” Principal William Conrad said in an email. “I want to assure the Galvin community that this incident, and any incident of intolerance to others, is taken very seriously.”

Principal Conrad said the school will spend time making sure students understand the severity of the action, though he did not say if the school has any idea who may have drawn the Swastikas.

The school is, however, investigating the incident.

Here's a statement from the superintendent's office:
We were troubled to learn that 2 swastikas were found in the 3rd boys' bathroom at the Galvin Middle School. In instances like this, we work with children so that they understand some very important messages -expressions of hate or attempts to instill fear have not place in our schools. Everyone belongs; everyone is welcome; and everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in our schools.
As educators, we need to teach children what some words and symbols mean and how those words and symbols make other people feel.
In our schools, students are members of an inclusive community that values respectful and responsible relationships. We need to teach students very explicitly and intentionally exactly what that means.
Please let me know if you have any other questions,
Jennifer Fischer-Mueller, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

Here's the letter sent home from the principal:
March 23, 2017
Dear Galvin Parents/Guardians and Staff:
Wednesday afternoon, two Swastikas were found in the 3rd floor of the boys' bathroom by an after-school custodian. This incident is extremely disturbing and against our school values of creating a welcoming, safe, and inclusive community at the Galvin Middle School.  I want to assure the Galvin community that this incident, and any incident of intolerance to others, is taken very seriously.
Galvin administrators, along with our School Resource Officer, are investigating this incident. Our guidance staff, along with school officials, will be available to offer support to students. In addition, over the coming days, our student body will have an opportunity to think about the important nature and implications of this type of incident in discussions they will have with some of their teachers.
We will continue to educate and support your children so to insure that everyone is striving to create and sustain respectful and responsible relationships for all. If you have any questions or would like to speak with me directly, please contact me at conardw@cantonma.org or 781-821-5070 X3103.
Sincerely,
Dr. William Conrad
Principal

Cox Media Group