Fairfield Warde HS Student Faces Discipline Over KKK Reference

FAIRFIELD, CT — A Fairfield Warde High School student is facing disciplinary action after Principal Paul Cavanna said the student "inappropriately referenced the Ku Klux Klan" during a recent class presentation.

Cavanna discussed the incident in a letter to parents last week, stressing that "school consequences will be issued in accordance with Fairfield Public Schools Policy 5114 governing student conduct."

"It is critical now more than ever that we be aware of our words and actions and their impact on those around us," Cavanna wrote. "This reiterates the work we have undertaken in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League regarding 'Intent' and 'Impact.' Despite the intent or purpose of any words or actions, people can still be harmed."

Details of the presentation, and how the reference was used, were not disclosed.

Added Schools Superintendent Michael Testani, "We believe in the power of education to make a positive impact on our society, and we are committed to making all our schools places where all students can thrive and learn without fear."

Last week, Testani joined three local rabbis, First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick and Police Chief Robert Kalamaras during a news conference denouncing antisemitism.