WOODCLIFF LAKE—Superintendent Lauren Barbelet says a community concern over a middle school teacher’s approach to a lesson on totalitarian regimes is under investigation. Barbelet gave us a statement at press time and invited follow-up.
She said, “As an educator in the district for almost 30 years, I have always been proud of the safe and supportive learning environment that surrounds the Woodcliff Lake School District. Our roles as educators have changed over the years but the one constant remains: children need to feel safe and supported. It is essential to provide middle school students with an environment that is supportive and sensitive to their needs, both emotionally and academically.”
She said, “We are aware that there are questions within the community regarding a recent incident that occurred in the Woodcliff Middle School. Our school district prides itself on our open and honest communication. Questions have been expressed regarding a social studies lesson on totalitarian governments and the portrayal of their dictators including, but not limited to, Hitler, Stalin, and Mussolini.”
Barbelet said, “We are in the process of investigating the concerns that were expressed by parents in order to determine whether or not these historical issues were presented appropriately within the lesson”
She added, “This matter is still under investigation and therefore the Woodcliff Lake School District cannot comment any further at this time.”
She said, “All of that being said, please email me any questions you have, and I will do my best to answer them for you.”
We look forward to following up.