Middletown Students Stage Walkout Amid Principal's 'Leave'

MIDDLETOWN, CT — On the heels of hate-laced postings at Beman Middle School and the subsequent move to place the BMS principal on leave, students there staged a "peaceful" walkout Tuesday.

The protest was in support of Principal Ray Byron. Students "peacefully" left their classrooms and congregated in the gymnasium.

Middletown Superintendent of School Alberto Vázquez Matos quickly reacted with a statement to the community.

"This morning, a student-organized walkout took place at Beman Middle School," Matos said. "Understandably, this event may raise questions."

About Byron's Leave:

"As you might be aware, the Middletown Public Schools considers personnel matters to be confidential in nature. As such, we cannot share any information beyond the fact that Mr. Byron has not been terminated or disciplined by the Middletown Public Schools."

If the "leave" is determined to be disciplinary in nature, the school system, per state Freedom of Information law, would have to provide details on the move.

On the student walkout:

"This morning's student walkout was a demonstration of support for Principal Byron," Matos said. "As the students assembled peacefully in the gym, School and District personnel and administrators were present along with security personnel to ensure everyone's safety. We recognize and strongly support our students' right to express themselves. We are proud that they did so in a respectful and responsible manner this morning."

He said that, moving forward, "The administration at Beman Middle School is committed to providing a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students. We will continue to work closely with students, teachers, and staff to foster a positive school climate built on mutual respect. I appreciate your continued support of Beman Middle School and Middletown Public Schools."

Both the hate-messages and leave announcements were made Feb. 29. Matos said he was made aware of the situation the previous day.

"On repeated occasions, one of the bathrooms within the Beman Middle School building has been vandalized with anti-Semitic symbols, specifically swastikas," he said. Let me be clear: There is no place for hate, intolerance, or discrimination of any kind in the Middletown Public Schools. These acts are not only hurtful and offensive to individuals, but they also undermine the very foundation of a safe and inclusive learning environment for all."

Matos said administrators, are working with the Middletown Police Department to investigate the incidents.

"Both district and legal protocols and consequences will be adhered to and applied," Matos said.

Matos added, "We are committed to fostering open and honest conversations throughout the school community about the impact of hate symbols and their devastating effects on individuals and the collective well-being of our community.

"This will involve engaging all students and staff in dialogue. We will likely be seeking guidance and support from external organizations like the Anti-Defamation League to further enhance these discussions.

"Our words and actions hold immense power. Choosing kindness, empathy, and inclusivity is not only the right thing to do, but it is also essential for building a just and equitable future for all – let's remind our students and one another of this."

Resources have been added to the school system website, he said.

Here is the transcript of the letter announcing Byron's leave:

"Dear MPS community members,

"I write to let you know that as of yesterday, Thursday, February 29, 2024, Mr. Raymond Byron,
Principal of Beman Middle School, is on leave for an indeterminate amount of time.

Our priority continues to be the well-being and education of our students. As such, I have asked
Mr. Dan Raucci, our Supervisor of English Language Arts (Grades 6-12) and a longtime MPS
employee, to serve as Interim Principal of Beman Middle School. Mr. Raucci has graciously
agreed to take the position and will begin on Monday, March 4, 2024.

"In his most recent work, Mr. Raucci has been leading several important initiatives in support of
our Instructional Vision. He is an active and present member of our MPS community, often
present in classrooms in Beman and MHS, supporting principals, instructional coaches, teachers,
and students. Mr. Raucci has stated that 'As an employee, as a parent, and as a community
member, the success of this district is of critical importance to me.'

"Mr. Raucci will do well by our students, teachers, and community while in the role of Interim Principal of Beman Middle School.

"We appreciate your understanding and support."