Racial Slur Found Written At Darien School, Superintendent Says

DARIEN, CT — A racial slur was found written in a 7th grade boys bathroom at Middlesex Middle School this week, according to Superintendent of Darien Public Schools Dr. Alan Addley.

In a note to families on Thursday evening, Addley said the Darien Police Department and school administration are both investigating the matter. The slur was found on May 14.

This is the fourth such incident of a racial slur being found written on public school property this school year, and Addley called the acts "unacceptable."

In January and February, the N-word was found written in a sixth grade girls bathroom at MMS, and last October, the same word was found scrawled on a playground pole at Hindley Elementary School.

"As your superintendent, once again, I want to emphasize that these actions — whether they manifest as words, symbols, or behaviors — are deeply hurtful and have no place in our schools," Addley said. "These actions are against everything we stand for as a district and community: inclusivity, respect and kindness. Despite our ongoing efforts, it is disheartening to see these incidents persist."

Students found responsible will face "appropriate disciplinary consequences" in accordance with district policies, Addley said, noting the district "will continue to address these issues with the urgency, transparency, attention and educational response they require."

In March, Addley, in conjunction with the Anti-Defamation League, hosted a community conversation on hate speech.

Ongoing efforts to address hate speech include class lessons; assembly presentations; small student group discussions; staff and student ADL workshops; new extracurricular clubs; collaboration with the United Jewish Federation of Stamford, New Canaan, and Darien; and community conversations, according to Addley.

But the superintendent urged parents and guardians to engage in "open and age-appropriate conversations" with their children.

"It is through such discussions around the dinner table that we can collectively make a difference and guide our young people toward understanding, empathy, and respect," Addley said.

"While I am deeply concerned that we are continuing to face these challenges, I remain hopeful. I believe in the potential of our young people and in the resolve of our community to foster an environment where every student is valued, respected, and free from the harms of hate and intolerance."