March 3, 2026

Dear WMS Families,

On Monday, March 2, 2026, a student reported to a staff member that a swastika had been drawn in black marker in the boys’ bathroom near the cafeteria. We immediately began a thorough investigation, including a review of security camera footage, security guard bathroom-sweep logs, and interviews with students. As a result of our investigation, we have identified the student responsible and assigned disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Weston Board of Education Student Discipline Policy 5114 and the Code of Conduct. As I have shared previously, antisemitism or any form of hate-based language or symbolism has no place at Weston Middle School. Any member of our school community who engages in this type of conduct may face serious consequences, including suspension or expulsion.

While we hold students accountable when harm occurs, we are equally committed to proactive efforts that strengthen our school culture. Last Friday, February 27th, we facilitated our second No Place for Hate activity, which focused on helping students understand the distinction between intent and impact. Students explored how intent reflects what someone meant, while impact reflects how words are experienced. Students saying, “I was just joking,” does not erase pain. This lesson built on our fall “Identity Iceberg” activity, encouraging students to reflect on how certain words can “hit below the waterline” and deeply affect personal aspects of identity. Using real-life scenarios drawn from language heard at WMS, students engaged in small-group discussions to consider how words shape our culture and what it feels like when harm is personal.

Additionally, we are beginning a schoolwide book study of When We Flew Away by Alice Hoffman. This novel offers a fictionalized account of Anne Frank’s life before she went into hiding, helping students see her not only as a historical figure but as a young person navigating identity, family, friendship, and growing intolerance. 

We continue to partner with district-level resources and experts to support our school. We have reported this incident to our partners at ADL Connecticut and are in conversation with them regarding appropriate and responsive actions. A special thank you to the Mothers in BLUE and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), all of whom support us in this work. Together, we continue to work towards building a stronger school community grounded in acceptance, respect, and resilience. 

Sincerely,

Jason Bluestein

Principal