Letter from building principal, Dr. Buon

May 14, 2019

Dear South Middle School families,

The safety and well-being of your child(ren) is our highest priority. I am writing this letter to inform you about an incident that occurred in our building today.

Earlier today, we were made aware that a video involving animal cruelty was circulating among students in our school. The video was not filmed on school grounds, however it contained contents that were disturbing to many students. Building administrators, school counselors, and local police intervened to avoid further disruption and to process the contents of the video in a safe and understanding environment.  Please keep in mind, rumors are being intermingled with the truth. The district and the local police department are continuing to investigate this issue to determine what is true and what is a rumor. We will act as needed based on the outcome of our investigation.

This incident may be upsetting for your child(ren). Your child(ren) may have questions or wish to express their emotions if they viewed the video or heard about the contents. According to the age and level of understanding, answer your child’s questions honestly. Try to be sensitive to their desire to communicate, while listening to and accepting their feelings.

As we work though this issue, please help us remind your child(ren) to speak to an adult if they ever see or hear of something that is upsetting to them. Please keep in mind the importance of protecting the privacy of other children as you would want your child’s privacy to be kept. It is through the work of all that we are able to love and support our scholars.

Support is available in our school if your child(ren) should need to process their feelings further. Please call our Guidance Department to speak to a guidance counselor or a social worker at (845) 563-7020 if you need help supporting your child(ren) or think your child(ren) should speak with someone.

Through the Work of All,

Lisa Buon, EdD

Principal, South Middle School

ATTENTION: Are your scholars or colleagues doing something great? Please contact the district Communications Team at communications@necsd.net. We’d love to visit your class or event and/or post your pictures and recap to highlight the amazing accomplishments throughout our district!