Students and parents are upset as colleges move classes online during anti-Israel protests.
Parent voices concern over the recent “nightmare” situation on campus as anti-Israel protests disrupt education at Columbia University’s partner school, Barnard College. Amy Gallatin, whose daughter attends Barnard College, expressed her frustration on “Fox & Friends First,” highlighting the impact of the widespread protests on her daughter’s ability to receive an education.
Several colleges and universities across the country have faced closure due to the escalating anti-Israel unrest on campus. Barnard College joined the list of schools transitioning to remote learning as demonstrations intensified on campuses nationwide, including prominent institutions like Columbia University, UCLA, City College of New York, California State Polytechnic University, and Tulane University.
UCLA suspended classes for a day following violent incidents on campus, while City College of New York also shifted to remote learning amidst ongoing disruptions. Tulane University closed portions of its campus and moved some classes online, while schools like California State Polytechnic University and Columbia University announced hybrid or remote learning for the remainder of the spring semester.
Gallatin acknowledged Barnard’s decision to implement remote learning as a safety measure but highlighted the challenges her daughter faced during the protests. Taking a final exam in her dorm while hearing chants inciting violence outside, Gallatin’s daughter experienced a distressing exam environment.
Amidst the chants calling for harm, Gallatin’s daughter navigated a frightening situation, prompting Gallatin to commend media outlets for highlighting the antisemitism and anti-American sentiments at play. She also praised law enforcement’s efforts to clear the universities of occupiers.
Concerns over tuition refunds have surfaced among parents of students affected by the unrest. While Gallatin expressed uncertainty about seeking refunds, other parents have called for reimbursements before the next semester begins. Tuition costs vary across institutions, with schools like Columbia, Tulane, and UCLA charging upwards of $65,000 annually, while City College of New York and California State Polytechnic University have lower tuition fees.
The rise in anti-Israel protests has sparked fears among parents, with one University of Wisconsin graduate’s parent condemning the disruptions on campus. Emphasizing the importance of free speech while condemning threats and degradation based on religion or ethnicity, the parent stressed the need for all students to access educational resources without fear or obstruction.
As the campus climate remains tense, parents are calling for universities to uphold a safe and inclusive environment for all students. It’s a challenging time for families grappling with the impact of protests on their children’s education and well-being.
