Vernon Superintendent Releases Letter On Recent 'Violent' Event

VERNON, CT — Vernon Superintendent of Schools Joseph Macary on Friday released an open letter to the community regarding what police and education officials are describing as an ambush-style knife and bat attack between two rival factions of teens after a Rockville High School football game.

Here is the transcript:

An Open Letter to the Town of Vernon

September 20, 2019

One week ago, our community experienced a tragic incident when Rockville High School students were assaulted off campus. This difficult and traumatic event shook the core of many Vernon families. The Vernon Public Schools remains committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our students and staff.

The incident last week was an act of violence. Violence will not be tolerated in the Vernon Public Schools nor in the community at large. In any organized society, there are consequences for peoples’ actions and acts of violence will be treated sternly, with appropriate penalties, in accordance with federal regulations, state laws and board policies. The school has initiated an investigation into this conduct that will afford due process and take appropriate disciplinary actions.

Vernon Public Schools has been closely collaborating with the Vernon Police Department regarding this matter and we value their partnership. School administrators and police officials have reviewed security plans to ensure that our schools remain a safe learning environment. We have heightened security at Rockville High School and our crisis team remains available to support our students.

The safety and security of our students and staff, in and out of school, is our top priority. I am available to discuss this letter and to further address any concerns. Please contact me at 860-870-6000. Thank you for your support of the Vernon Public Schools during this challenging time.

Joseph P. Macary, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

Town of Vernon, Connecticut

See more on the incident here.