Smithfield antisemitic hazing accusation handling leaves superintendent on paid leave

SMITHFIELD, R.I. — Smithfield School Superintendent Dawn Bartz has been placed on paid administrative leave while an independent legal review examines how the district handled an alleged hazing incident involving members of the high school football team, according to a statement from School Committee Chair Richard Iannitelli.

The case centers on accusations that several Smithfield High School football players hazed a Jewish freshman student. The players were initially suspended from the team but were later allowed to return after completing a day of educational training.

During Bartz’s leave, Assistant Superintendent Lisa Odom Villella will step in as Acting Superintendent.

The situation has drawn strong reactions from parents and community members who are calling for clarity about the district’s actions and accountability for those involved.

According to the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island, five senior players allegedly locked a freshman in a bathroom and sprayed him with Lysol while shouting antisemitic slurs.

An attorney representing the players has denied that the behavior was antisemitic, describing it instead as a form of team bonding.

Superintendent Bartz previously confirmed in an October 10 statement that the school was investigating what she called an antisemitic incident, and that disciplinary action had been taken against the students. All accused students have since been reinstated.

Smithfield antisemitic hazing accusation.