NYC schools leader shares troubling case at antisemitism hearing in house

The Chancellor of New York City Public Schools, David Banks, appeared before lawmakers on Capitol Hill to address the alarming rise in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents within the school system. Since the onset of Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7th, there have been a staggering 281 reported incidents, with approximately 42% classified as antisemitic and 30% as Islamophobic.

Banks emphasized the seriousness with which each incident is handled, stating, “We take every single one of those very, very seriously. We investigate and then we initiate the appropriate level of conduct.” However, one particular case stood out among the rest and troubled Banks the most.

During the hearing titled “Confronting pervasive antisemitism in K-12 schools,” Rep. Elise Stefanik revealed disturbing details about behavior at Origins High School in Brooklyn. She recounted an incident where 40 to 50 students marched through the school chanting ‘Death to Israel’ and ‘Kill the Jews.’ Additionally, a teacher was subjected to vile antisemitic slurs by students, including wishing for her death and expressing admiration for Hitler’s actions against Jews.

Stefanik pressed Banks on the disciplinary actions taken against the students involved in the chants and harassment. While Banks refuted the specific chant of ‘Death to the Jews,’ he acknowledged the deeply troubling instances of antisemitism at Origins High School. He disclosed that a number of students had been suspended in connection to the incidents, but the case was currently under litigation, limiting his ability to provide detailed information.

The need for the hearing was described by Rep. Aaron Bean, R-Fla., as a “travesty” due to the prevalence of antisemitism and anti-American sentiment post-October 7th. He criticized the education system for failing to address and prevent such hateful ideologies, emphasizing the importance of combating antisemitism and upholding democratic values.

Throughout the hearing, Banks reiterated the commitment of school leaders to respond appropriately to reported incidents. He emphasized, “Whenever an issue is brought to our attention, our role as leaders is to make sure that we respond in an appropriate fashion. And that is what we have been doing.”

The testimony and revelations shared during the hearing shed light on the urgent need to address and confront antisemitism in educational settings. As incidents continue to rise, it is imperative for schools and communities to work together to foster a safe and inclusive environment for all students.