March 8, 2015
Dear Bronx Science Families,
As you have no doubt heard, Bronx Science history teacher and Speech and Debate coach Jon Cruz was arrested at his home on Friday, charged with three counts of child pornography. These charges have, of course, shocked and surprised the entire Bronx Science community.
We know that there are many questions and concerns and we want to assure you that they are being heard and addressed. We have full confidence in Principal Dr. Jean M. Donahue and her team to lead the school community through this and we are all united in our determination to protect the welfare and well-being of all our students.
Here is what we have in place right now to help:
- For students, guidance counselors and teachers will be available starting Monday to talk with any student. Dr. Donahue will be meeting with the entire staff prior to the start of classes. Please encourage your child to go to the guidance department and/or their teachers this week.
- For the Speech and Debate Team: Principal Jean Donahue will meet with the team at 3 p.m. Monday. Debate parents (only) are also invited to attend.
- For parents, we have added a special Parents Association meeting this Wednesday, March 11 at 7 p.m. at the school. The program will be an open discussion with the administration. All parents and/or caregivers are invited to attend, and are encouraged to speak of issues and/or ask questions that concern them. Vallo Transportation will provide free bus service to the PA meeting from Manhattan and Queens. Please reserve your seat by noon on Tuesday. For details please visit our transportation page.
- For families, we encourage you to continue to talk to your children about what happened. Make sure you are part of the conversation and you offer guidance.
Please let us know if you have any additional suggestions and please feel free to contact us with any questions. We all remain committed to this great school, its students and its continuing goals of excellence.
Shanti Knock & Patrick Gibbons
Co-Presidents, Bronx Science Parents Association
