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Speakers raise concerns about middle-school murals, antisemitism and virtual academy curriculum
Summary
Two public commenters told the board they believe murals in a district middle school include praise for extremist figures and that the district should inspect approval processes for public displays; another commenter asked for updates on curriculum oversight and antisemitism training and resources for Jewish students.
During the meeting''s public comment period, two speakers urged the board to address concerns about school displays and curriculum oversight tied to student safety and inclusion.
Resident Lynn San told the board she was concerned that murals in Wissahickon Middle School include imagery and quotes that she said put Jewish students at risk. "This mural violates several district policies," she said, and she asked the board to explain the district's process for approving public displays in school buildings and which staff member is responsible for that approval. She also cited the district harassment policy and urged administrators to "be pressured testing any displays against the harassment policy prior to approving them."
A second public commenter urged the board for an update on the Wissahickon Virtual Academy partnership curriculum (noting prior curriculum concerns) and asked for plans to address students who previously did not receive elements of a course. The speaker also asked the district to provide antisemitism training and resources for the district's Jewish students; the commenter said Jewish students represent about 20% of the district and requested a board response after the meeting.
Board members acknowledged public comment and indicated the concerns would be taken under advisement; there was no extended response or action recorded in the meeting transcript. The topics raised touch on district display approvals, compliance with harassment policy, curriculum oversight of partner programs, and training and supports related to antisemitism and student safety.
