MEDIA

Statement from the Sanchez Family:

Our family wishes we could be present with you all tonight, but we will respect the process every step of the way and have faith that the resolution our community so greatly deserves is on the horizon. It is difficult to find the proper words to express what our family and our beloved South Orange/Maplewood community is collectively enduring.As you can imagine this past week has been a nightmare. Our daughters have so many questions we simply can’t answer because we are as shocked and confused as they are. 

I haven’t slept much this week.  When I have, I’ve woken to that fleeting moment where I wonder if this is real or just a nightmare.

However, what gets us through this is the realization of how blessed we are that we are not facing this reality alone. 

Your support has been overwhelming and uplifting. 

My husband, Frank, has always told me what a special community this is.  People here in SOMA step up to act for the good of the community. You stand up against injustice when you see it. I’ve witnessed that first hand this week in so many ways. Frank believes deeply in the SOMA mission – that we must look towards and fight for a brighter future for our schools and our society.  He wants nothing more than to continue his journey as an Educator at Columbia High School. 

We thank each and every individual who has reached out with a hand of support, with a message of loving compassion, or with offered resources to help equip our family as we embark on this journey. As unfortunate as this situation may be for all parties involved, we must all remain resolute in our commitment to the truth.

The Sanchez Family thanks you for your support.