Laytonsville Elementary School principal Maria Watson sent a letter to the Laytonsville community on Monday informing them of vandalism discovered on a bench outside of the school. According to the letter, the vandalism included a “drawing of a swastika with the name Hitler” drawn on a bench outside of the school. The full letter, with additional information, can be seen below:
“Dear Laytonsville Elementary School Community,
I am extremely disappointed to report to you that a drawing of a swastika with the name Hitler was recently discovered on a bench outside of Laytonsville Elementary School (LES). Due to the timely response by an LES staff member, it was quickly removed, and we subsequently informed Montgomery County Police (MCPD), the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Office of School Security and Emergency Management (OSSEM), and the MCPS Office of School Support and Well-Being (OSSWB) to assist in the investigation of this serious action.
We are deeply saddened that this news comes on the same day that a community letter from LES leadership was sent affirming our dedication to making all students and families feel welcome and safe in our school community. While there is no indication that this was written by LES students, it is important that we continue our work with our students to help them understand the impact of hateful and hurtful words and symbols of antisemitism. We value and appreciate all of our students and staff, and in order for this to continue to occur, respect has to be evident in our school. This means that we need to continue to recognize our differences and show understanding, acceptance, and empathy towards each other. When we use inappropriate words to describe each other – or draw hateful symbols that we know will cause hurt and harm – we are not respecting each other, nor are we creating a community of care. In addition, we are well-aware of the larger context here within our school district and have been partnering with the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) to bring supports to MCPS.
I encourage parents to talk with their children about respecting our differences. Please help them to understand the weight that intolerable symbols, words, and actions carry with them. HERE is a link for parents of suggested tools and strategies to talk with children about important societal issues. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 240-740-1660.
Sincerely,
Maria Watson
Principal”
Featured photo by Google Maps
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17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.
Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.
Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!
17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)
Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895
www.dayofthebook.com
Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival
Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director
301-949-9416 (text preferred)
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
