Tilden Principal publishes letter to the community

Tilden Middle School principal Sapna Hopkins published this letter, below, to the Tilden MS community on November 17, 2023 as part of the Timberwolf Connection newsletter.  

It appears that her instructions to staff is to not respond to certain emails from Tilden parents. If anyone reading this blog has more information please let us know. And she warns parents who will be attending upcoming Caregiver Conferences not to bring up "the matter of the teacher who is under official investigation." (That teacher is on paid leave.)

GREETINGS TILDEN FAMILIES!

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To say that this week has been one of the toughest week for me, our students, staff, and families would be a huge understatement. Tilden community is hurting. Our staff is pushing through every day with the hope that there is some light at the end of this dark tunnel. Yet, time and again, situations occur on a daily basis to push us back. This week, a community member sent multiple staff members an email containing disturbing images depicting violence against Israelis and outlining specific expectations for classroom discussions on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Such behaviors pulling us away from taking care of our students. Furthermore, they suggest that antisemitism is prevalent within our school.

I want to strongly emphasize that I vehemently disagree with this portrayal. We must not let the alleged actions of one individual paint a broader picture; antisemitism is not widespread at Tilden. In fact, respect is a fundamental core value in our school, emphasizing the diverse and individual nature of each person in our community. We discuss, teach, and expect nothing less from everyone.

During these challenging times, our school community must approach sensitive issues with a professional and focused mindset. I urge you to refrain from sending such emails and encourage open communication through appropriate channels.

Staff members have been instructed not to engage with these emails, as doing so would be unprofessional. Rest assured that, with the support of the MCPS Office of School Support and Well-Being, our response will follow an established process, including necessary communication to keep our community informed.

No such conversations will be entertained at the Caregiver Conferences on Monday, November 20. We are developing talking points for teachers to use during conferences if similar topics come up. We will have Security presence to reinforce the safety of our staff, our student volunteers, and caregivers. Please know that the primary goal of these conferences is to focus on your student's academic and well-being of your student which will not be served by bringing up the matter of the teacher who is under an official investigation.

Your continued support for Tilden Middle and our collective efforts to foster a positive educational environment is greatly appreciated. Thank you!!