New York City Schools Chancellor David Banks vehemently denied allegations that the students who protested at Hillcrest High School last week had been "radicalized."
In a press conference, Banks expressed his disbelief at the notion that the students were terrorists or radicalized, calling such language terrible and irresponsible. While he confirmed that some students had faced disciplinary action, he declined to provide specific details or the number of students involved.
According to Banks, the incident on November 20 targeted a Jewish teacher who expressed support for Israel outside of school hours. Approximately 400 students disrupted the school, roving the halls and calling for the teacher's removal. However, Banks clarified that the teacher was never in direct danger and was on a different floor at the time of the incident. Two days later, a student alerted the principal about another planned demonstration, leading to a temporary lockdown of the school.
Conservative members of the New York City Council, belonging to the Common Sense Caucus, condemned the incident as an antisemitic assault and riots. They criticized the lack of immediate response and accused the agency responsible for the safety of children of attempting to sweep the incident under the rug.
Banks assured that the targeted Jewish teacher would be kept safe upon her return to work. However, he also mentioned a vague protest planned for Thursday, expressing concerns for the safety of staff and students. He emphasized that the students at Hillcrest High School should not be labeled as radicalized or antisemitic, stating that they were concerned about being unfairly judged. Banks saw the incident as a teachable moment and emphasized the need for the school community to live up to its responsibilities.
Banks highlighted that approximately 30% of Hillcrest High School students are of Muslim faith. He explained that these students consume information through social media platforms like TikTok, where they frequently see images of Palestinian families being affected by the conflict. Banks stated that the students feel a connection with the Palestinian community and interpreted the teacher's support for Israel as a message affirming the suffering of the Palestinian people.
Addressing claims of a cover-up, Banks asserted that the New York City Public Schools operate with transparency and do not hide or cover up facts. He expressed his offense at any suggestion that the school system would be less than forthcoming. Banks also clarified that a separate incident, captured in a video shared by Councilwoman Vickie Paladino, occurred on November 15 and was unrelated to the Israel-Hamas conflict. He confirmed that the school safety agent seen in the video was not assaulted and was separating two students to maintain safety.
Councilwoman Paladino, along with her colleagues, held a press conference where they accused Hillcrest High School of prioritizing progressive activism over discipline. Paladino questioned the accountability of the students' parents and criticized the school culture.
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