Joint Letter from the Select Board & School Committee
Dear Scituate Community:
We are writing to inform you of a deeply troubling and disturbing matter that has been brought to our attention.
Recently, Scituate parents sent Superintendent Burkhead two photos taken on Museum Beach. The photos depict what appears to be a grave in the sand and a makeshift headstone with the words “In loving memory of…” Although the name is misspelled on the marker, we believe it refers to Mr. jamele adams, Scituate Public School’s Director of Diversity, Education & Inclusion.
The Superintendent immediately shared the photos with Police Chief Mark Thompson, who has launched a formal investigation. The Select Board is collaborating with the Scituate Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee to advise and work on this matter.
Jointly, the Select Board and School Committee strongly condemn this vile act. Scituate takes pride in being a welcoming, inclusive community. Any words or actions that threaten or demean members of our community are unacceptable, will not be tolerated, and will be addressed with appropriate consequences. We urge parents to talk with their children about the impact of their words and actions.
We extend a sincere apology to Mr. adams, and our unequivocal support for him as a valued member of our community and the vital work he is helping to lead in our schools and community.
If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact the Scituate Police Detectives at 781-545-1212 or anonymously at Scituate Police Department.
Sincerely,
Bill Burkhead, Superintendent of Schools
Nicole Brandolini, School Committee Chair
Peter Gates, School Committee Vice Chair
Dr. Carey Borkoski, School Committee Member
Maria Fenwick, School Committee Member
Janice Lindblom, School Committee Member
James Boudreau, Town Administrator
Maura C. Curran, Select Board Chair
Andrew W. Goodrich, Select Board Vice Chair
Karen B. Canfield, Select Board Member
Karen E. Connolly, Select Board Member
Susan J. Harrison, Select Board Member