To the editor:
To fight antisemitism in middle school more is needed than anodyne policies such as “fostering a climate of safety,” by teaching “empathy,” “kindness” and providing “anti-bullying lessons.”
As for “unnamed consequences,” I recommend suspending school for a significant period to clarify to both parents and students that antisemitism will not be tolerated.
Most effective would be the requirement that offending, impressionable students read one of the many age-appropriate books, about the Holocaust, to be followed by a book report.
Let the student(s) read and understand what went on in the showers at Auschwitz.
Mary-Lou Weisman
Westport
Thank you, Mary-Lou Weisman. Couldn’t agree more.
School was suspended long enough during Covid. Besides, why should everyone be punished for actions of a few. Suspend the individuals demonstrating the unacceptable behavior if it reaches that level. If it is a first time or lower level offense isolate them while at school so they feel the opprobrium of their school mates and teachers. When they feel the heat, they will see the light.