June 2, 2008

Dear Parents/Guardians:

As you know, an anonymous bomb threat was discovered at Robert Moses Middle School on Thursday, May 29, 2008 and again on Friday, May 30, 2008. Students and staff were safely evacuated in both instances and the building was searched by members of the First Precinct and District Security Staff.

An ongoing investigation of both cases is being conducted by police and school officials. This matter is a violation of federal law and the perpetrator(s) will be prosecuted vigorously. The District will impose the most severe penalties possible.

In a free society, it is almost impossible to prevent the misdeeds of a few. In reality, the vast majority of our students obey school rules; however, in order to ensure the safety of all students and staff, the following measures have been implemented at the Robert Moses Middle School:

1.Teachers have been assigned to supervise students who wish to use lavatories. Supervising teachers will be seated at desks outside each bathroom and will periodically check the bathrooms to make sure that all is “in order.” All students must show their ID cards, present a pass, and sign a roster that the teacher on duty will have.

2.The Director of Security is exploring the installation of additional cameras in hallways outside lavatories throughout the building.

3.Ms. Hartnett, the building principal, will continue to actively address this issue with students and staff.

4.Security Resource Officer Ahern, from the First Precinct, will be on hand during lunch periods for the remainder of the year, to answer any questions that students may have.

I encourage all parents/guardians to discuss the issue of school safety, particularly in a post 9-11 and Columbine environment. It is my desire that our children arrive safely to school and home each day, without interruption. The safety of our students and staff is of paramount importance, and I certainly appreciate your cooperation in this regard.

Sincerely,

Robert Aloise, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools