SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — Smithfield Public Schools Superintendent Dawn Bartz released a statement Thursday ahead of two Jewish groups’ press conference on a reported anti-Semitic hazing incident that occurred at the district high school.

Five school football players were allowed to re-take the field after they allegedly hazed a freshman student.

Bartz said that the district had acted “according to its policies” in investigating the incident, and that the school committee will meet on Nov. 3 to review and discuss this situation.

“We are actively exploring ways to strengthen programming for Smithfield students that reinforces respect, empathy, and inclusion, which are the core principles of our school community,” she said.

Bartz had previously said that he disciplinary process was complete and that “no further comments would be offered as the matter involved students.”

The full statement can be read below:

Following understandable deep concern expressed, I want to assure our community that I and indeed the entire Smithfield Public School administration, faculty, and staff stand firmly against antisemitism and hate. I have spent 30 years in education working to educate young people to think critically, care deeply, and treat others with dignity – values that are the foundation of both learning and community.

Our district has taken this matter seriously and acted in accordance with our policies. The School Committee is meeting on Monday evening to review and discuss this situation and ensure all actions have aligned with our district’s processes.

We are actively exploring ways to strengthen programming for Smithfield students that reinforces respect, empathy, and inclusion, which are the core principles of our school community.

I care deeply about every student in our schools and about the trust our community places in us. My focus is on ensuring that our schools remain safe and welcoming for all. At the advice of legal counsel this is all of the information I can share at this time.