Today marked a pivotal moment for the Jewish community within the public school system as Chancellor Banks testified before Congress in a landmark hearing addressing the pervasive issue of antisemitism in K-12 schools. This hearing shed light on the urgent need for increased oversight and proactive measures to combat hate and bias in educational settings. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the House Committee on Education & Workforce for calling today’s hearing. Their commitment to addressing antisemitism in K-12 schools is commendable, and we hope that their continued efforts will lead to meaningful change and a school system where every student feels valued and protected.
Throughout the proceedings, it became evident that while acknowledging the existence of antisemitism is an essential first step, tangible actions to address and prevent such incidents are sorely lacking. As Chancellor Banks navigated the discourse, it became clear that the current strategies in place are akin to mere band-aids, lacking the necessary adhesive to effect meaningful change.
“I want to remain hopeful but today’s hearing showed the lack of oversight for educators who spew hate and embed bias in young children – effectively laying a faulty foundation on which they build their adult opinions about Jews and the Jewish State.” said Tova Plaut, Founder of the NYCPS Alliance. The NYCPS Alliance calls on Chancellor Banks to provide transparency regarding consequences for educators who perpetuate hate. It is important that a comprehensive plan that includes mandatory training, reporting mechanisms, and swift action against Jewish hate, Jewish erasure and antisemitic incidents be uniformly adhered to. Our students deserve better than empty promises and superficial gestures.
In a poignant moment during the hearing, Congressman Williams encapsulated the prevailing sentiment felt by many, emphasizing that the mere words of officials such as Chancellor Banks offer scant solace to Jewish families in the absence of tangible actions. Tova Plaut succinctly underscored this sentiment, stating, “I think Congressman Williams said it best when he let Banks know that Jewish families ‘take very little comfort from his words’ – because his words are exactly and only that – words.” highlighting the urgency for substantive measures to address the pervasive issue of antisemitism within our K-12 schools. It underscored the need for accountability, transparency, and decisive action to safeguard the well-being and dignity of Jewish students and educators.
The NYCPS Alliance extends appreciation to Chancellor Banks for his acknowledgment of antisemitic acts within the school system and his efforts to respond to this pressing issue. However, it is imperative to recognize that education plays a pivotal role in combating hate.
“The twisting of definitions and narratives such as genocide, apartheid occupation and others have been detrimental to our Jewish community. As educators we have a responsibility to teach the facts – not push a political agenda.” Noted Karen Feldman, Founding member of the NYCPS Alliance and NYCPS Social Studies teacher after attending the hearing. By fostering environments of acceptance, respect, and zero tolerance for discrimination, we can cultivate safer educational spaces for all students and educators.
While understanding the monumental task of overseeing thousands of teachers and millions of students, Chancellor Banks affirmed his commitment to ensuring the safety of all individuals within the NYC Public Schools system. Chancellor Banks’s words echoed the right sentiments, but actions speak louder. His commitment to addressing acts of antisemitism is commendable, yet we cannot ignore the glaring gaps in his approach. It is now imperative for these words to be translated into decisive action, as Jewish students and teachers continue to face threats within our schools. It is vitally important to address the concerning omission of the multitude of antisemitic incidents occurring within New York City Schools, which regrettably went unmentioned during the hearing.
As one concerned retired teacher, Penny Berman aptly stated, “The hearing failed to mention the multitudinous incidents of antisemitism in NYC. Our chancellor was less than accurate in his responses and knowing what we know, he was disingenuous.” This oversight underscores the pressing need for comprehensive action to combat antisemitism at both the local and national levels.
It is also crucial to acknowledge the glaring absence of a curriculum vetted by Jewish scholars for accuracy. As highlighted by Penny Berman, a retired NYC Public School teacher, “In fact, there has been no curriculum to date that is vetted by Jewish scholars for accuracy. The current curriculum is biased against Jews.” This revelation underscores the urgent necessity for educational materials that reflect a fair and inclusive representation of Jewish history, culture, and contributions, free from bias and discrimination.
The NYCPS Alliance remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the rights and safety of Jewish students and educators within our public school system. Through collaborative efforts and sustained dialogue, we will continue working towards a future where every individual is valued, respected, and protected within our educational institutions.
Today’s hearing serves as a clarion call to Chancellor Banks and educational leaders nationwide. The eyes of the country are upon you, urging you to rise to the occasion and meet this moment with unwavering resolve. The NYCPS Alliance stands ready to collaborate in pursuit of a future where every student and educator feels safe, respected, and valued within our schools.
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The NYCPS Alliance is a coalition or educators, families and community members dedicated to
promoting acceptance, inclusion, and safety within the New York City Public School system.
Comprised of concerned community members, educators, and advocates, we work tirelessly to
address systemic issues and foster environments conducive to the success and well-being of all
students and staff.
Tova Plaut
Founder
NYCPS Alliance
[email protected]
