To Dr. Drew Patrick, Superintendent
To Mr. Kenneth Bonamo, Principal
Cc: Scarsdale Board of Education

Dear Dr. Patrick, Mr. Bonamo, and Members of the Board of Education,

We write as concerned members of the Scarsdale school community to strongly condemn the recent antisemitic incidents at Scarsdale High School, including the vandalism of materials for the Israeli Culture Club’s celebration of Israel’s Independence Day and the hateful conduct surrounding it. These actions are not isolated acts of disrespect, but clear acts of antisemitism that threaten the safety, dignity, and sense of belonging of students across our school community. We are calling on the District to respond with decisive action by holding those responsible accountable, addressing those who publicly supported these acts, and ensuring that leadership at every level reflects the standards of integrity, safety, and trust our community deserves.

At a time when antisemitism is rising nationally and globally, incidents like these cannot be minimized as immature mistakes. History has shown that when hatred is tolerated or ignored, it escalates. If this behavior is not addressed firmly and immediately, we risk creating an environment where far more serious harm can occur. Preventing that outcome requires leadership now.

We appreciate the administration’s acknowledgment that these actions were unacceptable and antisemitic, as outlined in recent communications , as well as the commitment that students found responsible would face appropriate disciplinary consequences. We expect that commitment to be fully carried out. This moment must send a clear message that hatred, intimidation, discrimination, and the public endorsement of such behavior have no place in Scarsdale schools.

Students directly responsible for the vandalism should face meaningful disciplinary action. In addition, students who have publicly supported, celebrated, or encouraged these antisemitic acts through social media or other public platforms should also face appropriate consequences. Publicly endorsing hate contributes to the same hostile environment and should not be treated as separate from the original misconduct.

Accountability must also extend beyond students. Members of the Board of Education are entrusted with leading our schools and must be held to the highest standards of judgment and responsibility. When a Board member’s immediate family is directly connected to the approval, encouragement, or defense of antisemitic behavior, it undermines public confidence in the Board’s ability to lead fairly and credibly during moments of crisis.

For that reason, we call for the resignation of any Board of Education member whose household is implicated in supporting these acts. Preserving trust in our school system requires that those responsible for governance be beyond reproach in matters involving student safety, discrimination, and community wellbeing.

This issue extends far beyond the Jewish community. When antisemitism is allowed to grow, it weakens the safety and wellbeing of all students. A school where any group feels targeted is a school where every student’s sense of security is diminished. Protecting one community protects the entire community.

We ask the administration and Board of Education to use this moment not only to enforce consequences, but also to reaffirm the values of respect, accountability, and safety for every student. Our schools must remain places where students can learn, express themselves, and celebrate their identities without fear.

We trust that you will act with the seriousness and urgency this situation demands.

Sincerely,

[Names of Signatories]