Cherry Hill Schools Concerned About Antisemitism, District Says

CHERRY HILL, NJ — The Cherry Hill Public School District is concerned about the surge of antisemitism being seen locally, as well as throughout the country and around the world, school officials recently said.

“Whether experiencing it directly or via the news and social media, many of our students and our community members feel deeply hurt, threatened or confused by the vitriol and images of violence,” Superintendent of Schools Joseph Meloche said in a letter to the community. “Our guidance counselors and student assistance counselors are available via their email addresses on our school websites and will respond quickly to students and families who reach out.”

He said additional resources, including how to help children cope with traumatic events, can be found on the district’s Student Assistance page.

“Our school district continues our daily work to provide a safe and welcoming environment in which our students learn and grow,” Meloche said. “We have policies and practices in place to make sure everyone in the Cherry Hill Public Schools community has the opportunity to learn and work in an environment where they are treated with dignity and respect, free from bullying or harassment. We do not discriminate on the basis of color, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, veteran status or disability, and we continue our dedicated work in Cultural Proficiency, Equity and Character Education to ensure constant improvement in these vital aspects of education.

“As superintendent, I can assure you that I am once again working with administration and staff, as well as community members, to increase our outreach during this painful time. Please join me in supporting one another, in being kind, and in speaking out against messages and actions of hate.”

Parents are always welcome to email jmeloche@chclc.org to share their thoughts or request a phone conversation, Meloche said.