Freehold Township Schools

Neal Dickstein, Superintendent of Schools

732-462-8400 ext. 8807 732-761-1809 fax
ndickstein@freeholdtwp.k12.nj.us

“...preparing all students to be

responsible citizens and life
long learners.”

February 4, 2019

Dear Parents/Guardians:

Today I was informed by the Freehold Township Police that there was a death involving a
prominent member of our school community. As reported by the Monmouth County
Prosecutor’s Office, there was an incident in a Freehold Township neighborhood which has
resulted in the passing of Mrs. Denise Bartone. Mrs. Bartone was the Chairperson of the
Freehold Township Education Foundation for several years and her daughters attended our
district schools.

As you know, our district has a crisis plan in place for meeting the needs of the school
community at difficult times like this. It is our intent to prepare ourselves, as best as possible, to
support our students, our community, and each other during times of loss. The district has made
arrangements for additional counselors and child study team members to be available for
students tomorrow at the schools most impacted by this loss. Our primary goal for tomorrow is
to maintain continuity for our students while supporting their emotional needs.

The Co-Cathedral of Saint Robert Bellarmine has requested that we share there will be a prayer
vigil this evening at 7:00 PM in the church. Saint Robert Bellarmine is located at 61 Georgia
Road. If and when the district receives additional information about the family affected by this
incident, I will share it with you.

I know there is a great deal of information being reported by the media; however, please note
that I must follow information protocols established for times like this. We do not release
information until permitted to do so by authorities.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Bartone girls and their extended family. Freehold
Township is an amazing community, and I know that we will join together to support this family
however possible.

Sincerely,

Neal Dickstein
Superintendent of Schools

384 West Main Street, Freehold, New Jersey 07728