NYC schools boss defiantly insists antisemitic incidents have been dealt with in ‘appropriate fashion’ during grilling by Congress
NY Post
Schools Chancellor David Banks was defiant as he was grilled by Congress Wednesday over his response to antisemitism in New York City classrooms — insisting that the egregious incidents have been dealt with “in an appropriate fashion.”
Tensions flared as Banks was slammed for his decision to reassign — not fire — the principal of a Queens school where students rioted in November against a Jewish teacher who had attended a pro-Israel rally.
“How can Jewish students feel safe in New York City public schools when you can’t even manage to terminate the principal of ‘open season on Jews High School?’” said Rep. Brandon Williams (R-NY), referring to former Hillcrest High School principal Scott Milczewski.
“It’s not ‘open season on Jews High School’ it’s called Hillcrest High School,” Banks snapped back, adding, “and we considered his leadership to not be strong enough in that school.”
“Is he strong enough to be on your payroll?” Williams prodded as Banks defended his decision to keep Milczewski on city Department of Education staff.
House Republican conference chairwoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY) also quizzed Banks on Hillcrest, noting it was “very concerning” that Milczewski had been moved into the senior position of director of instruction when his leadership had been called into question.
