Swastika Found At Needham High School Entrance

NEEDHAM, MA — A swastika was located near the entrance to Needham High School, Principal Aaron Sicotte confirmed.

In a letter to the community, Sicotte wrote that the symbol was located on the ground near the door entering the lobby from Admiral Gracey Drive.

"Upon its discovery, we immediately notified the Needham Police and the Superintendent's office. We know that it happened at some point last night or early this morning, but, at this point, we do not know the exact time or who was involved," Sicotte wrote.

Sicotte wrote that he was disgusted by the act, noting that it highlights the need to continue work to create a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for all.

"NHS needs to be a safe haven, free of graffiti like this and those we saw in December, and able to provide the support we need when the hate does permeate our walls," he wrote.

Anyone who has any information about the graffiti is asked to contact Sicotte or one of the assistant principals.

Below is the full letter:

NHS Staff, Students, and Families,

I am writing to share some very disturbing and concerning news. This morning, we discovered a swastika on the ground near the door entering our lobby from Admiral Gracey. Upon its discovery, we immediately notified the Needham Police and the Superintendent's office. We know that it happened at some point last night or early this morning, but, at this point, we do not know the exact time or who was involved.

I know you share my disgust at the offensive and hateful act. While we do not know if it was a member of the Needham High community who did it, we do know the impact is certainly felt throughout NHS. An act like this highlights our very real need to continue our work to create a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for all of our students and staff. NHS needs to be a safe haven, free of graffiti like this and those we saw in December, and able to provide the support we need when the hate does permeate our walls.

If you know of any information about this graffiti, please share it with me or one of the assistant principals. And if at any point you need support with dealing with this offensive act, please come to the guidance office.

As I have additional information, I will provide updates.

Respectfully,
Mr. Aaron Sicotte

Image: File Photo