Dear Parents and Guardians:
I would like to address parents’ concerns about clown sightings in our area.
Over the past two days, I have spoken with both the New York State Police Station Commander and our Student Resource Officer from the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office. Both police departments have reported NO sightings of clowns in our region including all bordering towns. They commented to me that they are spending an excessive amount of their time and resources responding to false rumors which have been spreading on social media and assumed as fact. However, with that said, please go with your first instinct; if something does not seem right, report it.
Much of this hysteria was started when there was a report of two clowns in South Carolina. This also coincides with a new movie coming out called “31” and the Halloween holiday.
Regardless of how this issue has grown, we are concerned with fears your child may have. Please talk to your child about their concerns and contact us if your child is fearful so we know and can help address their concerns.
I would also strongly suggest that no students dress as a clown this Halloween as it may provoke a negative response from people based on these incidents and rumors sweeping the nation.
I am hopeful that this hysteria leaves as fast as it started. Please join me in quelling these false rumors and not feeding into the frenzy.
Mr. Michael Tierney
Superintendent of Schools
