Graffiti described as “discriminatory, racial and hateful language” was found Wednesday in two Darien High School bathrooms, school district officials said.
“We are confident that this was the act of a small group of students, and it is being thoroughly investigated,” DHS Principal Ellen Dunn said in an announcement to students Thursday morning. “Serious consequences will follow for those involved.”
Schools Superintendent Alan Addley excerpted Dunn’s comments in his own announcement to families and staff Thursday evening, adding, “The administration, along with the Darien Police Department, are actively investigating the matter, and appropriate consequences will be applied.”
The incidents have occurred much more often at Middlesex Middle School.
Full Text of Addley’s Announcement
Good evening families and staff,
I am deeply saddened to inform you of another troubling incident that occurred yesterday at Darien High School, where discriminatory, racial and hateful language was found in two bathrooms.
DHS Principal, Mrs. Dunn, shared the following in today’s student announcement:
“Yesterday, we were terribly disappointed to learn about discriminatory, inflammatory, and hateful language posted in two bathrooms.
“This violates not only school policy but also our commitment to one another. Our Vision of the Graduate calls us to do what is right, even when no one is watching. We believe in empathy and integrity as core pillars of our school community. This language harms us all and contradicts what we stand for.
“We are confident that this was the act of a small group of students, and it is being thoroughly investigated. Serious consequences will follow for those involved.
I ask everyone to recommit to speaking up against such language and ensuring that our school remains a community where all feel respected and belong.”
This incident is a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining the values that define our school system and community. The administration, along with the Darien Police Department, are actively investigating the matter, and appropriate consequences will be applied. We need and appreciate your ongoing partnership as we work together to nurture a community rooted in respect, kindness, and inclusion.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Alan Addley, Ed.D.