A Special Message from Father Simon

I am saddened to report on a vandalism incident in our school buildings last Saturday evening, September 25.

Around 9pm, three males and two females were observed on our security video after making a forced entry into the Keene Avenue building. Camera footage shows them taking down fire-extinguishers from the walls in the lower level of the building and discharging them in the hallways. They were then seen proceeding to the gym where they discharged another fire extinguisher. They then exited the building.

We immediately contacted the Chicago Police and filed the necessary report. Later, we provided the police with our security videos and other evidence that came into our possession. The police also recovered the fire extinguishers that had been used and tossed aside outside our parish campus. As is the case with any apparent intentional damage to parish property, I am obliged to notify the Legal Department of the Archdiocese of Chicago, and will be guided by their counsel and direction.

Principal Carlson and I received nothing but overwhelming support and assistance to clean up the mess and safely reopen our school, including about forty men from our parish who showed up that night with buckets and mops to be a part of the cleanup. It is a true witness of our love for our community and what it means to each one of us. We all take pride in everything we do and we will do all in our ability to protect our school and parish.

Finally, as the investigation and determination of consequences proceeds, we are reminded that accountability is a virtue that we teach our children from a young age. It is important not only for individuals to accept responsibility for their own actions, but also that all our young people know that actions have consequences and that doing the right thing is a lesson which is constantly being learned and relearned.

Thank you for your support in this difficult time. We will keep you advised of future developments.