Trump Administration Takes Strong Stance Against Antisemitism in Schools Amid NYC Controversy

FIRST ON FOX: In an executive order issued on January 29, President Donald Trump announced additional measures aimed at combating antisemitism nationwide. This initiative arises in response to the unprecedented wave of antisemitic incidents triggered by the Hamas terror attacks in Israel on October 7, 2023. The president highlighted a concerning increase in discrimination, vandalism, and violence directed at Jewish citizens, particularly within educational institutions and campus environments.

Leo Terrell, senior counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, is heading a newly established Justice Department Task Force focused on combating antisemitism. In an interview with Fox News Digital, he emphasized the president’s directive urging the task force to utilize every available resource within the Department of Justice to eradicate this unacceptable behavior. Terrell noted that Attorney General Pam Bondi is fully backing these efforts, allowing him to leverage federal power in pursuit of justice.

In recent statements, Terrell expressed concern over the treatment of Jewish Americans in schools. He pointed out that since the outbreak of violence on October 7, there seems to be a pervasive failure to protect Jewish students in both K-12 schools and higher education institutions. Terrell’s remarks resonate deeply in light of rising antisemitism within New York City Public Schools, where recent findings reveal a troubling environment.

Investigating Antisemitism in City Schools

The New York Public Schools Alliance, a coalition of concerned teachers, students, and administrators spearheaded by co-founder Karen Feldman, has conducted an investigation into alleged antisemitic prejudice within the city’s public schools. Their findings suggest a systemic failure to protect members of the Jewish community from discrimination. The group reported evidence of both implicit and explicit bias present in educational materials and curricula that could worsen social divisions.

Concerns at Susan E. Wagner High School

Reports from various sources reveal that the atmosphere of antisemitism is particularly pronounced at Susan E. Wagner High School in Staten Island. The school has faced scrutiny after a Fox News Digital report last spring shed light on the issue. City Council member David Carr relayed that numerous parents of Susan E. Wagner students have approached him with concerns about antisemitic sentiments surfacing during school events. In January, during the school’s International Festival, some attendees reportedly shouted phrases such as ‘Free Palestine’ while the Israeli Student Club performed.

Additional instances of antisemitic remarks were reportedly directed at students before their final performance, prompting an intervention where the offenders were removed and subsequently banned from future school events. One student, speaking on the condition of anonymity, recounted that some removed audience members hurled derogatory remarks, including ‘stinky Jews,’ as Israeli dancers made their way to the stage. Although school personnel intervened, it was noted that staff offered apologies to the offending audience members while escorting them out.

An Ongoing Dialogue is Necessary

In his discussions with school leadership, Carr expressed the necessity for continuing dialogue to foster a welcoming atmosphere for all students. He underscored the unacceptability of hate speech in educational settings, describing antisemitism as one of humanity’s most enduring forms of hatred that must be consistently confronted.

The same student also disclosed that hate speech was not the only issue; they raised concerns about staff members donning pro-Palestine paraphernalia. While some educators may not openly express discriminatory sentiments, it creates an environment where students are acutely aware of their teachers’ beliefs.

Allegations of Bias in Reporting Incidents

Further complicating matters at Wagner are claims that school administrators have engaged in programming that presents a biased narrative concerning the Israel-Gaza conflict. Notably, in April 2024, the Wagner Arab Student Association hosted a speaker they described as a ‘survivor of the ongoing genocide in Gaza,’ an event attended by faculty and Principal David Cugini.

This student explained that many classmates feel dissuaded from voicing their concerns regarding antisemitism because they believe their concerns will be dismissed, essentially sending the message that Jewish students occupy a lower status within the school community.

Additionally, there are troubling reports concerning the mislabeling of antisemitic incidents. The New York Public Schools Alliance shared multiple occurrence reports reflecting acts of antisemitism that were categorized as non-bias-related, raising red flags about the accuracy of how such incidents are recorded.

Responses from School Officials and Advocacy Groups

Fox News Digital sought comments from both interim Superintendent Roderick Palton and Principal Cugini regarding these allegations, including how antisemitic incidents are documented at Susan E. Wagner. Neither responded to inquiries regarding the safety of Jewish students at the school.

A spokesperson for the New York City Department of Education outlined that the NYC Public Schools are implementing training workshops designed to encourage respectful and empathetic dialogue on difficult subjects. Additionally, the spokesperson highlighted goals of inclusion regarding Jewish American and Muslim American communities, emphasizing a commitment to ensuring a safe learning environment.

However, the NYCPS Alliance expressed skepticism regarding the efficacy of current measures, criticizing the Hidden Voices curriculum for potentially providing a skewed view of history that may foster hostility among Jewish students due to its one-sided narratives.

The Importance of Correctly Addressing Antisemitism

The education department spokesperson claimed a 46% decrease in reported incidents of religious bias this year. However, Feldman challenged such figures, questioning how any substantial decrease could occur when antisemitic incidents are not being accurately logged as bias-related. She also voiced concerns about the toxic environment at Susan E. Wagner, focusing on how fear and silence discourage students from reporting incidents.

Feldman pointed out that the antisemitism currently being witnessed is just one part of a broader cultural issue that remains unaddressed. Terrell, meanwhile, indicated forthcoming initiatives aimed at providing support for Jewish students and educators who may feel marginalized. These initiatives will include establishing a direct complaint line to the task force for victims of antisemitic behavior.

With expectations for help on the horizon, Fox News Digital attempted to reach New York City Mayor Eric Adams regarding the prevailing antisemitic atmosphere in public schools but did not receive a response.

Addressing a Growing Crisis

The current climate of antisemitism in New York City schools illustrates a troubling trend that merits urgent attention. As discussions continue surrounding the treatment of Jewish students, it is essential for school officials, parents, and communities to engage in meaningful dialogue. Only through diligent efforts can educational institutions foster an inclusive and respectful environment for all students, regardless of their background.