New Rochelle Superintendent On Ray Rice: 'We All Condemn Such Behavior'
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The superintendent of the City School District of New Rochelle says though Ray Rice's actions are condemnable, his hometown can "hope for healing and growth for him, his family and our community."
On Wednesday, photos circulated on Twitter of the bare walls where Rice's pro jersey and Walk of Fame plaque once hung at New Rochelle High School. The school left up the varsity jersey of Rice, who was released by the Baltimore Ravens and suspended indefinitely from the NFL on Monday after video of him punching his now-wife was leaked, sparking outcry from coast to coast.
"This episode is a poignant reminder that domestic violence can affect anyone, and is an ongoing challenge faced by people every day across all walks of life," CSDNR superintendent Brian Osborne said in a statement Thursday.
His comments in full:
"Dear CSDNR Family,
"In the last few days, each of us has seen and heard about the actions of former New Rochelle student and football player Ray Rice, and we all condemn such behavior. Our community stands united in the belief that physical violence to settle differences cannot be condoned.
"The images are very personal for our community, as Mr. Rice grew up in New Rochelle, attended New Rochelle schools, and played football for New Rochelle High School. Many of us know Mr. Rice and his family, have celebrated his undeniable accomplishments, and now hope for healing and growth for him, his family and our community.
"This episode is a poignant reminder that domestic violence can affect anyone, and is an ongoing challenge faced by people every day across all walks of life. As a school community, this brings to the forefront our shared obligation to educate children and adults about ways to build healthy relationships and prevent domestic violence. As educators, we are now focused on helping the CSDNR community learn more about these critical issues, particularly as we approach Domestic Violence Awareness Month, marked each year in October. Find more information from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence here: http://www.ncadv.org/takeaction/DomesticViolenceAwarenessMonth.php
"Principals and key staff in all CSDNR schools stand ready to appropriately address these issues for children of every age. Each of our schools has dedicated personnel available, including teachers, counselors, psychologists, social workers and administrators, all caring professionals who are prepared to help our children.
"Please reach out and share your ideas with us as we all work together to become better informed, increase awareness and focus on efforts to learn how to prevent domestic violence.
"Most Sincerely,
"Brian G. Osborne, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools"
Rice led his alma mater to a state title in 2003.
"When you put people up on a wall of fame, it's an inspiration to the kids in the school," New Rochelle High School athletic director Steve Young told USA Today. "It becomes a teachable moment for the kids, that when something like that happens, there's a consequence."
WFAN co-host Craig Carton said Wednesday that he had spoken with Rice, who will likely sell his home in Maryland and could return to his support system at home in Westchester County.
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