In a recent government meeting, officials commended the administration and community members for their efforts in commemorating the first secular anniversary of the October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. The meeting highlighted the significant role played by Missus Hannah Behar, the faculty advisor, and the Jewish Student Union at North High School, who have actively engaged in addressing issues of anti-Semitism and terrorism over the past two years.

The speaker emphasized the importance of community resilience, noting that Great Neck has served as a beacon of hope during challenging times, akin to previous crises. The administration's proactive approach since the attacks has included educational initiatives aimed at galvanizing the community and addressing the rise in anti-Semitic incidents, which have been described as the worst since the Holocaust.

The board's swift response to community concerns was acknowledged, with discussions involving various stakeholders, including parents, clergy, and nonprofit leaders. The board called upon the New York State Education Department (NYSED) to condemn Hamas terrorism and allocate resources to combat anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. Notably, the board was recognized as the only one in New York State to formally request such actions from NYSED.

Furthermore, the administration has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of the curriculum and extracurricular activities related to anti-Semitism, with the aim of fostering a more inclusive educational environment. The speaker expressed gratitude for the administration's efforts in coordinating these initiatives and highlighted the ongoing need for vigilance against the threats posed by terrorism and hate.