On Jan. 26, three swastikas were found in the boys’ bathroom in Weber Middle School.   This hateful graffiti was drawn on the same day as an assembly was held at the school to address hate based on race and religion.  

“It is of great concern to us that one of our students is responsible for this type of deeply disturbing behavior.  It goes without saying that this behavior is reprehensible and has no place in our community.  We will continue to reinforce our stance that antisemitism will not be tolerated and must be rooted out,”  said Superintendent Dr.  Michael Hynes, in a letter sent to families and district staff.

In recent months, hate crimes have been on the rise in educational settings.  The FBI reported that 10% of hate crimes in the US take place in schools.  

The defamation was on the heels of another antisemitic instance that occurred in Schreiber this past October.  This act of hate was immediately reported to the Port Washington Police Department, who began an ongoing investigation.  

In addition, Weber has taken several more precautions including increased bathroom inspections.   

“It’s honestly scary that someone would think to do this and it’s really unnerving for something like this to happen in our town,” said eight grader Liza Zlotoff.  

When an event such as this occurs, not only does it affect the people directly involved, but it impacts everyone in the community.  The graffiti was a topic of the Jan. 31 board meeting, which parents attended looking for answers.  

“When there’s a swastika in my own town, I am deeply affected by it, mortified.  It’s incredible to me that this is happening.  I never imagined it would be happening here. The lessons of history teach us that the small isolated events can spread to something much more vile and sinister,” said Port Washington parent and Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center Board Member Adam Ruttner to CBS news.  

The impact of this behavior doesn’t stop with parents.  Students of all ages are horrified by the recent antisemitism. 

“Seeing a rise in antisemitism within the Port Washington community truly makes my heart hurt.  This event also makes me concerned for the safety of the Jewish community here.  People need to understand that these incidents are serious and need to be addressed, not thrown under the rug, and the meaning of hate symbols need to be clearly taught so everyone completely understands their impact and why they are so hurtful,” said freshman Elizabeth Milgrim.

It is not the first time antisemitism has reached Schreiber.  The Port Washington staff want to make clear that these recurring activities are unacceptable.  

“I am deeply troubled by the recent occurrences of antisemitism within our community.  Such acts of hatred starkly contrast the empathy, respect, and kindness I consistently see at our school.  It’s imperative that we stand united in our resolve to denounce discrimination in all its forms and to actively foster an environment where every student and staff member feels valued and included.  Together, we will continue to educate and empower our community to uphold a culture of belonging and maintain a safe, welcoming space for all, ” said Principal Dr. Kathryn Behr.