Birmingham Middle School Hate Incidents Reflect Broader Societal Issues: Superintendent

BIRMINGHAM, MI — Earlier this month, Derby Middle School authorities found a disturbing message using manipulative letters arranged to spell “Heil Hitler” and a swastika. A week later, administrators at the Birmingham school sent an email blast notifying parents that graffiti hate speech had been found on posters, bathroom walls and student work displayed in hallways. A locker was vandalized, and a musical instrument removed and damaged beyond repair.

“While we do not have conclusive evidence, we are investigating reports that two non-Derby students were spotted in multiple locations of the building after hours,” the administrative team said. “The vandalism was discovered immediately following this time.

“Please know that our Derby students are amazing at upholding our touchstone, which is to respect everyone, respect yourself, respect everything and respect every day,” the email continued. “We would like you to continue to talk to your children about the values of inclusivity and respect that we embrace at Derby, and encourage them to continue to report any behavior that is not inline with our Derby values. Please also know that our administrative team is working on grade level appropriate activities to reinforce our school and district values.”

While school officials are working with the Birmingham Police Department on the vandalism reports, several students have been disciplined in the swastika incident, school spokeswoman Marcia Wilkinson told The Birmingham Eccentric.

Birmingham Schools Superintendent Daniel Nerad told the newspaper those responsible may be repeating politically charged rhetoric and that adults have some responsibility in the situation.

“The schools are a microcosm of a broader society,” Nerad said. “And let’s be honest, we are in a time where there have been some notable events in society. It’s not surprising that these things are coming in the school doors, but nor is it acceptable.”

The incidents are teachable moment about diversity and cultural differences, he said, “but we cannot address this alone.”

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Photo via Birmingham School District