Branford Schools Chief Condemns Bullying After Report Surfaces

BRANFORD, CT - Hamlet M. Hernandez, who is superintendent of schools, released a statement Monday condemning bullying and any other attacks involving students.

As a way of background, WTNH News 8 reported late last week that a 12-year-old student was physically attacked at Walsh Intermediate School and verbally assaulted.

The physical abuse included the student’s head being slammed into a locker and the student was also subjected to anti-Semitic slurs, News 8 reports. Read the News 8 story here.

Hernandez in his statement doesn’t specifically reference the News 8 report because as he states he cannot comment on a specific student or case.

Below is Hernandez’s full statement released to the media Monday:

"Branford Public Schools (BPS) is committed to ensuring each school maintains a safe environment for all students. The District strongly condemns inappropriate behavior toward any student, including bullying, violence and racial attacks. All claims of misconduct or prohibited behavior are investigated and addressed in a timely, thorough and judicious manner by the administration. If warranted, disciplinary action is taken by the District.

Information regarding discipline imposed by the District is protected under the Family Education and Rights Privacy Act (FERPA) and can only be shared with the parent/guardian of the child who is the subject of the disciplinary action. While we cannot comment regarding actions taken concerning any specific student, the Branford Public Schools can assure the community that the situation at Branford Intermediate School that has recently been the subject of public comments has been reviewed carefully and thoroughly by the administration.

We encourage all students to demonstrate appropriate behavior and to be respectful toward each other and to celebrate the diversity of our schools."