>RHS Dance: modified our procedures to keep events drug and alcohol free
Dear Parents,
I am writing to you today to inform you about some issues we dealt with at the dance on Saturday night. After an unacceptable dance 2 years ago we modified our procedures and we conducted a number of incident free events.
We had an overwhelming turnout for the Oct 30th dance with over 1000 student in attendance. After noting the numbers we asked the Ridgewood Police to send 2 uniformed officers to assist our staff of 16 staff members including my wife and I. It was necessary for us to send 2 students to Valley Hospital as they were intoxicated and needed medical attention. In addition, we sent 3 students home with their parents as they were under the influence. Three students were identified as being under the influence and after being interrogated fled the scene. The parents have been contacted and their students will not return to school until we meet with them and their parents.
There were reports that a student was smoking pot on the dance floor but this incident was not confirmed. We did smell cigarette smoke in the campus center and stopped the dance to address the issue. Some students informed us who the smokers were and we are dealing them.
Despite these issues a considerable number of students behaved in an acceptable way and had an enjoyable evening, though we concluded the dance a 1/2 hour early.
We will continue to conduct these events for our students as they have little to do on the weekend. We are trying to provide school activities that will engage students in a positive way. We ask that you partner with us and urge your children to attend these events drug and alcohol free.
If you have any questions please contact me.
John Lorenz
Principal
