Advocacy Group Seeks DOJ Probe into NYC Public Schools
The National Jewish Advocacy Center requests a federal investigation citing reports of rising antisemitism in city schools.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Secondary Education
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The National Jewish Advocacy Center has officially requested that the Department of Justice launch an investigation into the New York City Department of Education. This formal complaint follows reports of families withdrawing students from city public schools due to alleged antisemitic incidents.
Why it matters
The request highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety and environment of public education for Jewish students in New York City. It comes as families continue to transition their children from public institutions into private Jewish day schools and yeshivas.
The United Jewish Teachers organization reported at least 250 antisemitic and anti-Israel incidents across schools since October 7, 2023. Additionally, Jewish school enrollment in New York City increased by 1,587 students during the 2025-26 school year.
The players
National Jewish Advocacy Center
This organization advocates for the protection of Jewish students and families against discrimination.
New York City Department of Education
This agency oversees the management and operation of public schools within New York City.
Harmeet Dhillon
She serves as an Assistant Attorney General who received the formal complaint letter.
Damien Neva
He is a teacher at Brooklyn PS 77 who was cited in the complaint for a social media post.
George Trim
He is a teacher at IS 181 who faced discipline regarding comments about historical attacks.
The details
The complaint includes testimony from parents who withdrew their children from public schools and interviews with Jewish employees of the Board. The filing specifically cites instances such as a 2024 social media post by Brooklyn PS 77 teacher Damien Neva and disciplinary actions against IS 181 teacher George Trim for comments about the September 11, 2001, attacks.
Timeline
September 11, 2001: The terrorist attacks occurred in New York City.
October 7, 2023: Terror attacks occurred on Israel, preceding reports of school incidents.
November 2023: A federal civil rights shared ancestry investigation was initiated.
2024: Brooklyn PS 77 teacher Damien Neva posted an online message supporting Yahya al-Sinwar.
October 2026: The National Jewish Advocacy Center filed the formal request with the Department of Justice.
Culture Shift
This request follows the 2026 launch of a federal civil rights probe into the city schools, indicating a broader move toward increased external oversight of local educational environments. It mirrors a regional trend where families are opting for religious institutions over the public school system.
Parents and students in the public school system may see increased attention on campus conduct and teacher discipline policies. This climate shift influences decisions regarding school enrollment and the preference for private educational settings.
The takeaway
This development underscores the growing tension regarding civil rights and student safety within large urban public school districts. Families looking for alternatives continue to shift enrollment toward private yeshivas and religious day schools.
Further reading
Learn more about the current Secondary Education environment in New York City.
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