'Reprehensible': LI School District Reacts To Swastikas Drawn On Desks

RIVERHEAD, NY — The Riverhead Central School District reacted Friday after "reprehensible" swastikas were found drawn on desks in a high school classroom, officials said.

In a letter to the community, Dr. Augustine E. Tornatore, superintendent of schools, said on Thursday, the high school administration was informed by one of its teachers that they were made aware of the swastika symbol being drawn on desks in their classroom; the district immediately opened an investigation, he said.

High School Principal Sean O'Hara has interviewed the students known to be sitting at the desks; the parents of these students have also been notified and spoken to, Tornatore said.

The images have been removed from the desks, he added.

O’Hara has reached out to the Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center in Glen Cove for resources and support, the superintendent added.

"It goes without saying that this behavior is reprehensible and has no place in our community. The district has strict policies and has zero tolerance for any behavior, whether verbal, physical or in any form, that is derogatory, abusive, racist or in any way defamatory. Following a thorough investigation, appropriate disciplinary action, if warranted, will be taken," Tornatore said.

He added, "When any additional information that can be shared becomes available, we will provide the community with an update."