Fort Lee Parents and Students Demand Action After High School Stabbing Incident

Community Outcry Grows Over School Safety After Stabbing at Fort Lee High School

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Fort Lee NJ, Two weeks after a violent stabbing incident on April 8 left a Fort Lee High School student critically injured, parents and students packed the Board of Education meeting to demand accountability and immediate action. The tragedy has sparked an ongoing debate about student safety, school culture, and the district’s responsibility to restore order and trust.

Rising Frustration Over Lack of Discipline and Oversight

During the Monday night board meeting, nearly two dozen concerned residents and students addressed the Board of Education. Many criticized what they viewed as a failure by school leadership to crack down on escalating misbehavior, which they believe has created an environment ripe for violence.

“We need to care about the culture we want to cultivate in the Fort Lee school community, not what it looks like to outsiders,” said parent Ariel Mayer, calling for stricter discipline such as increased suspensions and expulsions.

Students Speak Out: Fear and Frustration Inside the School Walls

Several students provided powerful testimony about their daily experiences, including fighting, smoking, and class-skipping, particularly in school bathrooms. Many expressed feeling unsafe and unsupported.

“How am I supposed to feel safe going into the bathroom at any point in my school day?” asked Maxim Startsev, a sophomore at the school.

“I cannot be gladder that I’m leaving,” said senior Nikola Antic, who described the school’s environment as toxic and unmanageable.

 Security Talks, Residency Concerns, and Calls for Transparency

Superintendent Robert Kravitz confirmed that the district is working closely with the Fort Lee Police Department on enhancing school security and developing programs for students with behavioral issues.

He also addressed claims that some disruptive teens aren’t even enrolled students or Fort Lee residents, confirming that the district has a residency officer tasked with verifying student eligibility.

“We are trying to be proactive as best we can,” Kravitz said, though many parents believe more direct action is needed now.

Parents and Board Members Push for Town Hall Meeting

Several parents suggested organizing a special community meeting to foster transparency and involve families in decision-making. The idea received support from multiple board members.

“Just based on the comments tonight, I hope our administration is taking them to heart,” said Board Member Paula Colbath.

Board Member Kacy Knight encouraged students to stay involved, noting their insights are vital to solving the underlying problems.

“You truly know what the problem is… and I appreciate you letting us know,” she said.

What’s Next?

With tensions high and trust shaken, the Fort Lee school community is demanding a clear roadmap for restoring safety and stability. As the district explores new initiatives, many will be watching closely to see whether words turn into real change.

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