Social Media Incident
Randolph Township Schools believes in the education of the whole child beyond academics. This includes supporting the social and emotional well-being of all students and embedding this fundamental foundation as part of our curriculum. We believe that children must learn to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions in order to become educated members of a global society. The recent posts of some of our students on social media are not reflective of our district and the students we represent. The conduct we have witnessed is abhorrent and the antithesis of the values we teach every child in Randolph. As a district, we have and will continue to condemn harassment, intimidation, and bullying in all forms.
Upon receiving information about the posts, the district immediately worked with the Randolph Township Police Department who instructed school officials that they would lead the investigation as it is now a criminal matter. The district is legally restricted from commenting on an open investigation. Any discipline as a result of these posts, which were made in private homes, off school grounds, and not during any class, will be in line with our district policies that govern all matters such as these and New Jersey code. While we cannot discuss student consequences publicly due to confidentiality laws, our school district has no tolerance for hatred of any kind.
The district has a team of mental health professionals ready to assist any student in need. We will continue to make counselors available privately to students along with group sessions. Any student who feels they have been bullied or harassed should reach out to their school principal.
We will continue to stand in support of acceptance and firmly against any form of intolerance.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Fano
