Moriah takes action
Expulsion, discipline and police intervention have followed the widespread revelation of trespassing online schooling and videos being published on social media showing what appears to be drug-taking.
Rabbi Yehoshua Smukler
In a new letter to Moriah parents, principal Rabbi Yehoshua Smukler wrote: “A key responsibility of a school is to provide all students and staff with a learning and teaching environment in which they feel safe and secure, and in which they can learn, thrive and grow. This is true for both face-to-face, or online learning.
As you would be aware, over the past week, some videos of Moriah High School classes were shared widely, and some made their way into the media sphere. These videos, and the antics and behaviours therein, let down the individuals involved, their families, our school and community.
We ask that you all do your part in upholding and respecting our safety and security online. No one is allowed to video any other person in our school environment, online or in person, without the express permission of the teacher in charge.
Please think about the impact you may have on others before passing on a video. If you are concerned about any content or media, you may have received, please immediately bring it to the attention of your mentor teacher, Head of Year or Head of Wellbeing, and we will address the matter.
We have taken the following actions in relation to the above-mentioned videos.
We have identified the individuals in the videos, those who recorded them, as well as the trespassers into our lessons.
We have managed the situation in accordance with our Behaviour Management Policy and Procedures, and this has resulted in serious disciplinary sanctions and terminations of enrolment. All actions taken have been consistent, and in line with our core values.
The past students, and non-Moriah trespassers, who entered our learning spaces, are being investigated by NSW Police.
The Moriah B’Yachad Online learning platform has been further upgraded to ensure it is safe and secure for all students and staff.
Our educators and administration staff are working tirelessly to ensure that all our children learn and flourish. The vast majority of students are embracing the Moriah B’Yachad Online learning, and all the opportunities on offer.
We will not allow the negative actions of a few fringe-dwellers to bring down the extraordinary work, engagement, and positive energy of our College community.
Thank you to the many parents who continue to express their support for the school, and appreciation of our staff.
We understand lockdown can be challenging, and we also know, that together, we can thrive as a community.”
