Attacks create toxic environment where harassment, intimidation are normalized

On October 18, I came upon a deeply disturbing display: an effigy scarecrow positioned at the edge of the Sleepy Hollow woods, clearly visible from the driveway of my friend, neighbor, and School Committee member Tracey Marano.

This is now the second effigy placed in town that appears to target and intimidate both Dr. Hunter and Ms. Marano. As a longtime resident, I am alarmed by the escalation of these threatening gestures. Children and teenagers in the neighborhood have seen it and expressed fear. I contacted the Acton Police and shared my concern for Tracey’s safety.

These acts reflect a troubling pattern of hostility fueled by increasingly negative rhetoric from certain groups in town — many of whom do not have children in our school system. I’ve witnessed repeated badgering of committee members during public meetings. This behavior fosters a toxic environment where harassment and intimidation of our superintendent and volunteers are becoming normalized.

At the October 8 meeting, several community members voiced strong criticism of past decisions and of Dr. Hunter’s leadership. While some claim their feedback is constructive and “not bullying,” we must consider the real impact. Claiming that harsh criticism isn’t bullying is a thin disguise. When effigies and letters invoke fire and hatchets — paired with verbal threats — that crosses the line into real harassment.

I urge all committee members in town to spend time in our schools, witness the daily realities, and engage with the full spectrum of what our students and staff experience. Together, we must help foster a climate of respect, empathy, and collaboration. We must protect those who serve our schools and stand firmly against intimidation.

Denise Jantzen 

Partridge Lane