My daughter was sexually assaulted by another student at Cleveland St. School on June 5th, 2024. Despite coming forward bravely, the lack of physical evidence led the principal to let the child  walk free. Prior to this, my daughter was a victim of physical assault on the school bus. Both incidents had been swept under the rug, as if taking away her voice was the solution to handling these ghastly incidents.

These unfortunate occurrences are indicators of a systemic failing within the school's administration in protecting our children. National statistics reveal that nearly 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys will be sexually abused before they turn 18 years old (National Sexual Violence Resource Center). A school should be a sanctuary for education and growth, not a place where our children are exposed to physical and emotional harm with no consequences for the offender.

We, the concerned citizens of Orange, NJ, call for immediate accountability and change within Cleveland St. School. Whether it is through the shutdown of the school or the removal of the current principal, our primary goal is to ensure safety for all children.

This is not just about my daughter. This is a fight for all children within these walls and any who will join them in the future. We owe them a safe educational environment that fosters their development rather than threatening their physical and emotional well-being.

Stand up against the negligence and apathy exhibited by Cleveland St. School. It's time to demand a safe environment for our students. Let's collectively take a step forward to secure their futures. Sign this petition to echo our call for change.