House panel questions leaders of major U.S. public school districts in California, New York, and Maryland regarding rising incidents of antisemitism in schools. The Republican-led House education subcommittee summons Berkeley Unified Schools Superintendent of California, New York City School Chancellor, and Montgomery County School Board President to address concerns.
Rep. Aaron Bean from Florida expresses worry about the surge in antisemitic incidents in K-12 schools following recent events. The issue highlights the lack of action from district leaders, leading to unsafe environments for Jewish teachers, students, and faculty members.
The school district leaders were invited voluntarily to testify before the House panel, with no subpoenas issued. Berkeley United School District shares in a statement that Superintendent Morthel did not actively seek to testify but accepted the invitation out of respect. The district emphasizes its commitment to maintaining respectful and inclusive classroom environments for all students.
Complaints about the handling of alleged antisemitic incidents have arisen in each of the three school districts, which all have a significant Jewish student population. The Anti-Defamation League and the Louis Brandeis Center file complaints against Berkeley schools, citing unresolved cases of harassment and discrimination towards Jewish students.
The Zionist Organization of America files a civil rights complaint against Montgomery County Public Schools, accusing officials of tolerating and ignoring antisemitic incidents. New York City also faces a civil rights complaint for failing to address persistent acts of antisemitism against teachers.
Montgomery County Public School District emphasizes policies promoting religious diversity and preventing discrimination, bullying, or harassment based on religious beliefs. New York City’s Schools Chancellor acknowledges the importance of combating exclusion and intimidation, stressing the need to stand against hateful acts collectively.
In the wake of escalating antisemitic incidents in schools, the House panel seeks answers and solutions from district leaders to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. The testimony from the summoned school officials will shed light on the challenges and actions needed to address the growing concerns of antisemitism in public education.