West Hartford Public Schools Investigating Swastika Graffiti Found in Bathroom

West Hartford Superintendent of Schools Paul Vicinus said Friday afternoon that the symbol was found in a bathroom near the school gym.

By Ronni Newton 

Hall High School Principal Dan Zittoun sent a letter to families Friday afternoon after a symbol of a swastika was found earlier in the day penciled on the door of a bathroom stall near the school’s gym, and and he and Superintendent Paul Vicinus said the incident is being taken seriously and investigated.

“As we continue to emphasize, there is no place for hate at Hall,” Zittoun wrote. “We are asking for your assistance in helping put an end to these acts. If you have any information that could help us identify the individual, please reach out to administration or use the anonymous alert app. Hall is a community for all and we will move forward together, standing strong against hate of any kind.”

Vicinus noted that schools throughout town continue to foster conversation and take steps toward “eliminating hateful speech and discrimination in our community,” including an assembly on Monday at Hall regarding hate crimes.

“West Hartford Public Schools holds close to its values and efforts to create inclusive environments,” Vicinus said. “Symbols of hate and degrading speech have no place within our schools. Acts such as these cannot be allowed to detract from all of the positive work at Hall and across the distinct to support a culture of belonging.”

Zittoun adde that “[f]or those who may have been impacted by this event or message, please know there are caring adults in the building to provide additional support.”

He offered resources, including a link to a website with guidance for parents about speaking with their children about hate speech.

West Hartford Public Schools also has an anonymous alert system (click here), and is encouraging anyone to share information they may have regarding this incident.