Antisemitic Graffiti Found In Bathroom At Ridgewood School: Officials

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — Antisemitic graffiti was recently found scrawled on the bathroom wall at Ridgewood High School, prompting statements of condemnation from local leaders.

"Hate cannot and will not be tolerated in North Jersey — especially within our schools, which should be teaching that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths," District 5 Congressman Josh Gottheimer said.

Gottheimer said he had reached out to Ridgewood's superintendent and will continue to be in touch with school district officials to "ensure appropriate measures are taken, including a strong focus on Holocaust education."

School Superintendent Leonard Fitts said on Jan. 2 that the incident was immediately reported to Ridgewood police, and that an investigation is underway.

"Incidents of this nature go against our core values and beliefs and will not be tolerated," Fitts said. "The Ridgewood Public School District prides itself on being a diverse and inclusive community where all individuals are valued and treated with respect."

Fitts added that he, along with school leadership, will work to reinforce these expectations and ideals on a daily basis, and provide a safe place to engage in meaningful learning, work and play.

"Ridgewood schools provide a rich educational experience that is grounded in fostering empathy," he said. "Through our programs and activities, students learn about the importance of being an up-stander."

Just last month, a swastika was found penned into a desk at nearby Glen Rock Middle School, also eliciting condemnation from officials.