Schools Chancellor David Banks at the Museum of Jewish Heritage on May 23, 2024.
The New York City public schools system announced on Monday new initiatives to combat bias in schools, including a new anti-hate hotline and an interfaith advisory council.
Meeting the Moment Agenda
The initiatives are part of the city Department of Education (DOE)’s ongoing “Meeting the Moment” agenda launched after the start of the Israel-Hamas war in the Middle East on Oct. 7, 2023, to combat increasing incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia and other forms of bias around NYC and inside classrooms.
New Anti-Hate Hotline for Streamlined Incident Reporting
A new hotline — 718-935-2889 — is available for students, parents, staff and the community to report incidents of hate, harassment or discrimination. The hotline is staffed with employees from the public schools’ School Parent Support, P311. It is accessible Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Incidents can be reported anonymously at the caller’s request.
Interfaith Advisory Council
Community and spiritual leaders from various faiths started a council and began meeting this academic year to provide input and ideas for engagement with faith-based communities. Reverend Jacques DeGraff, the council chair, said the panel aims to help teach students “how to build bridges” and collaborate with others.
Quotes
- "As educators, a critically important part of our job is to teach our children about the world around them—to understand complex issues, to appreciate diversity, and to be active citizens who can respectfully engage with others." — Outgoing Schools Chancellor David Banks
- "In challenging times across our country and world, it is especially important to teach our children to engage in constructive, empathetic dialogue on issues of the day." — Incoming Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos
Conclusion
The New York City public schools system is committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for students, families and staff. The new anti-hate hotline and interfaith advisory council are part of a broader effort to combat hate and bias in schools and promote understanding and respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the new anti-hate hotline?
A: The new hotline is available for students, parents, staff and the community to report incidents of hate, harassment or discrimination.
Q: Who is eligible to report incidents on the hotline?
A: Anyone can report incidents, including students, parents, staff and community members.
Q: Is the hotline available 24/7?
A: No, the hotline is accessible Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
Q: Can incidents be reported anonymously?
A: Yes, incidents can be reported anonymously at the caller’s request.
Q: What is the interfaith advisory council?
A: The interfaith advisory council is a group of community and spiritual leaders from various faiths that started a council to provide input and ideas for engagement with faith-based communities.
