Ramapo-Indian Hills District Addresses Hateful Symbol Found In School

FRANKLIN LAKES, NJ — As reports of hateful and anti-Semitic incidents rise, the Ramapo-Indian Hills school district, which has two high schools serving three local towns, said they were addressing an "offensive symbol/swastika" found at one of the schools.

School officials said the symbol was found at Ramapo High School, but didn't go into further detail.

However, a Facebook post said the symbol was found after school in the bathroom on a Friday, and encouraged people to ask how it would be handled.

Ramapo and Indian Hills High School serve Wyckoff, Franklin Lakes, and Oakland.

Interim Superintendent of School Dr. James Baker posted a response on Thursday, Jan. 18. The district then followed up the next day with a more elaborate statement from Board of Education President Kim Ansh.

Both statements are below.

Statement Of Dr. James Baker

To the Ramapo-Indian Hills School District Community,

The Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District is deeply disturbed by the discovery of bias-related acts that have recently surfaced at Ramapo High School. We unequivocally condemn acts of hatred of all types.

Please be assured that the district immediately took action in response to these discoveries by removing the offensive symbols and language and notifying law enforcement. We are conducting an active investigation in coordination with our local law enforcement partners to identify those responsible.

We remain committed to ensuring that our schools remain safe, secure and nurturing spaces for all students. We understand that this situation may have a profound impact on our students, staff, and community members. Please know that the support services of the district are available for those in need.

The district has worked diligently to provide culturally responsive programs for our students in order to create an inclusive learning environment for all. As we move forward, we welcome your partnership in helping us promote an inclusive atmosphere in our schools.

Best,
Dr. James Baker
Interim Superintendent of Schools

Important Message from Dr. Baker and BOE President Kim Ansh

Posted Jan. 19

In view of the recent incident and in recognition of the fact that the Administration and the Board of Education stand united on this issue, I present the following statement from Board President, Kim Ansh.

Best,

Dr. James BakerInterim Superintendent of School

To the Ramapo Indian Hills School District Community,

At the Thursday, January 18th Board of Education meeting, the following was addressed:

The Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District Board of Education is profoundly concerned and extremely unsettled regarding the offensive symbol/swastika found at Ramapo High School. We want to be clear that the Board unequivocally condemns antisemitism, racism, and all acts of hatred.

As the matter remains under investigation by law enforcement, the Board cannot comment further on the specific incident. However, we want to assure you that the Board remains committed to its mission to eliminate all forms of bias and discrimination and to promote mutual acceptance and respect among our students.

For that reason, we stand with the statement issued by Dr. Baker, Interim Superintendent of Schools on January 18, 2024 which can be found on the district website RIH.org under News/ Announcements.

Please direct any questions or concerns to Dr. Baker’s office. Best, Kim Ansh, on behalf of the entire Board of Education President, Board of EducationRamapo Indian Hills Regional High School