Interim Westport Schools Superintendent David Abbey said tonight that swastikas and Stars of David with an expletive were found at Staples High School.

In an email to parents, he said an extra night crew was called in to remove them before classes Friday morning and that Westport police were assisting in the investigation of who was responsible.

“We take these acts seriously and are actively partnering with the Westport Police Department as we move forward with the investigation,” Abbey said. “In the days ahead we will do everything we can to deter these acts, throughout our district — and through our daily efforts, work to create a climate where all are welcomed and valued.”

Here is the text of Abbey’s email

Dear Westport Families,

Earlier this evening a swastika was found carved onto a stall door in a bathroom at Staples High School.

Upon further examination, and with the assistance of the Westport Police Department, additional swastikas were discovered in other Staples locations.

In one location several Stars of David (Jewish Stars) were found next to an expletive. We have called in an extra night crew to ensure that these odious symbols and expressions of hate will be removed by start-time tomorrow morning.

Our high school principal, Mr. Thomas, will be contacting the high school staff this evening to inform them of these hateful acts and to prepare for school tomorrow, which will include convening connections, our student advisory period, in order to answer questions and provide support to our students.

We take these acts seriously and are actively partnering with the Westport Police Department as we move forward with the investigation.

In the days ahead we will do everything we can to deter these acts, throughout our district — and through our daily efforts, work to create a climate where all are welcomed and valued.