11-Alive News’ Donna Lowry and Bill Nigut of the
Anti-Defamation League Come To The Epstein School

To view the 11-Alive News (WXIA) segment that aired on
September 18, 2008 click here.

As part of a caring community, The Epstein School was shocked by the hateful acts of vandalism, by a person or persons who spray painted swastikas near the school.  In the last few weeks, hundreds of heartfelt letters have poured into The Epstein School from all over Georgia and the Greater Atlanta area, from children of all faiths who oppose hate. 

The messages overwhelmingly expressed that people were deeply saddened and troubled by what happened, but that they used the incident as an opportunity for learning and discussion.  On Wednesday September 17, 2008, Bill Nigut, the Regional Director of the Anti-Defamation League, came to deliver more letters from school children at area schools. 

Donna Lowry of 11-Alive News (WXIA) interviewed Mr. Nigut and students to get their impressions of the incidents and reaction to the letters.  Epstein students hung the letters on the wall near the nurse's office for display in The Epstein School.  The letters will remain on display for several weeks. 

One message came from Mary Beth Smith of Queen of Angels Catholic School, who had worked with Epstein Middle School students, as part of an interfaith project last year with Epstein's Middle School Principal Myrna Rubel.

Ms. Smith stated, "I immediately thought of you and your wonderful students.  Of course, I was saddened.  But the news story presented a teachable moment for our students to raise their awareness of hate crimes and to learn about the victims, bystanders and perpetrators.  It was a time to talk about greater humanity, the value of life, the value of others and moral responsibility.  I applaud you and your colleagues for your dedication to young people.  Please continue your labor to shape and guide them to seek justice. Shalom.  Peace Be With You" - Mary Beth Smith - Queen of Angels Catholic School.  

Perhaps, Anne Frank said it best, “Despite everything,  I still believe people are good at heart.”

The Epstein School is very grateful to the community
for the showing of support.

To learn more about The Epstein School click here.