March 9, 2026

Dear Hastings Community,

This morning, we were made aware of stickers containing hate speech that had been placed on a stop sign and the Ali Marpet Way sign between the Farragut Middle School playground and Reynolds Field. The stickers are in particular an affront to Israel and Jewish people. These statements are offensive, unacceptable, and have no place in our community. The Village and school district have a zero-tolerance stance toward hate speech and acts of bias.

At this time, we have no evidence indicating that this incident is connected to the school district. Sadly, similar stickers were also found on several Village pay stations, suggesting that this may be part of a broader incident within the community.

We are working closely with the Hastings Police Department to investigate the matter. As part of this process, we will be reviewing school district security camera footage in the area to determine whether any individuals can be identified.

We remain committed to ensuring that our schools and shared community spaces are safe, welcoming, and respectful for all. If you have any information that may assist in this investigation, please contact the Hastings Police Department.

Witness tomorrow night’s Speak Up Presentation, sponsored by the PTSA’s Inclusion Working Group, Hastings students, staff, parents and families are dedicated to confronting hurtful and hateful language and actions. Tomorrow night’s forum is open to the public (7:00 p.m. in the FMS Auditorium).

Thank you for your partnership in helping us uphold the values of dignity and respect that define Hastings-on-Hudson.

Sincerely,

Tom Drake, Mayor of Hastings-on-Hudson
William S. McKersie, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools