BRRSD Response to Recent Events

Dear Bridgewater-Raritan School Community:

The Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District strives to ensure all members of our community feel safe and valued. As you may know, one of the district’s three goals for this year speaks specifically to this priority. Our district goal is to “Build a district-wide culture that is accepting and appreciative of diversity, promotes equitable opportunities, reduces bias and supports an inclusive environment.” Any hateful words and actions undermine this goal within our district and within our nation. We encourage all of our community members to stand against racism and hate in ways that are peaceful, productive and consistent with our values of respect and inclusivity.

It is important for our students and our community to know that our district rejects hate and condemns violence. Equally important is a call to action for the individuals in our district to ensure that your students, colleagues, friends, and family know that you adamantly oppose hateful speech and actions. This is our belief and is important to express at all times, especially in the wake of tragedy. Over the past year there has been an increase in violence and hate crimes against Asian Americans that has coincided with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic. Most recently, six Asian American women were killed in Atlanta. Any violent crime is tragic and unacceptable. Those motivated by race or other distinguishing characteristics are reprehensible and must compel each of us to peaceful and productive action to make our community and world a better place.

Sincerely,

Dr. Thomas Ficarra
Interim Superintendent of Schools