| Dear Nishimachi Alumni and Community, I am shocked and saddened to write to you with news that has been recently brought to my attention from a concerned Nishimachi alumnus. Richard Biddick, a former grade 5 teacher at Nishimachi during 1982-1988, was reported to have been convicted and sentenced to 8 years in prison for drugging and sexually abusing a 11 year-old boy in England during a six month period in 1979. On behalf of the Nishimachi Board of Directors, I am in the process of contacting the Nishimachi Community (students, teachers, staff and others) from the period during 1982-1988, alerting them of the news reports and reaching out for more information or evidence of whether any inappropriate conduct occurred or was reported to the school during the time when Mr. Biddick was a Nishimachi employee. We are taking this matter very seriously and have consulted with the school lawyer and other professionals for guidance. If any alumni have information or evidence related to this matter, I would be grateful if you could contact me directly (tchristian@nishimachi.ac.jp). This information will be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality and will be evaluated by the Nishimachi Board. Today, Nishimachi requires all current and incoming employees to undergo an independent criminal reference/police background check and to successfully complete professional reference checks as well as to agree to adhere to the Nishimachi Student Protection Policy guidelines as part of school procedures designed to prevent this type of abuse. In addition, Nishimachi`s Student Protection Policy has protocols and procedures to ensure faculty and staff are vigilant and that students are aware of, and comfortable with reporting inappropriate behaviors to a trusted adult either at school or at home. Prior to the start of the academic year, during our August faculty/staff orientation sessions, these protocols and procedures are reviewed with all faculty and staff. Furthermore, faculty/staff attend annual training sessions in order to effectively and appropriately identify, respond to suspicious behavior to support student safety and welfare. In due course, I will keep you informed of the progress of this inquiry and welcome any questions or concerns regarding this very sensitive matter. Yours Sincerely, Terry Christian
Headmaster
Nishimachi International School | 
