Police Investigate Swastika Found at Long Island Middle School
Superintendent Mary O’Meara confirmed the incident occurred Monday and said the district expects to impose serious consequences if responsible students are identified.
By Elijah Fitzgerald ·
A swastika appeared in a boys bathroom at Matlin Middle School in Plainview-Old Bethpage, New York, on Monday, Nov. 2. Superintendent Mary O’Meara announced the finding to the public that same day, noting that two students spotted the symbol and alerted faculty members immediately. Police were notified after the report, and an investigation is currently underway to determine who left the mark.
Board President Seth Greenberg addressed the school board on Monday, stating that the district takes hate symbols very seriously. He described the conduct as unacceptable and said it conflicts with the school's goal of making every member of the community feel safe and respected. Greenberg said O’Meara will update residents as new details emerge from the inquiry.
Trustee Karen Reiss Medwed characterized the incident as small but urged parents to discuss the meaning of the symbol with their children. She noted that the community prefers to stay in a bubble of safety but feels distressed when hate intrudes through symbols or words. Medwed thanked families and educators for maintaining stability in the district.
O’Meara said the timing of the incident is particularly upsetting because the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center had just presented on hate symbols at the school days earlier. The Jewish Community Relations Council has already reached out to offer support. O’Meara emphasized that the district will continue educating students about antisemitism.
The superintendent explained that investigations often fail to identify the specific student responsible. However, she stated that if the district does identify the students, the consequences will be swift and serious. Potential penalties include re-education, a superintendent’s hearing, and a suspension of more than five days, depending on the student’s age and circumstances.
During the same meeting, the board proposed capital projects for John F. Kennedy High School. A recent survey of nearly 1,000 residents showed that 71% would tolerate spending less than $50 million on improvements. The District Facilities Committee suggested expanding the cafeteria, adding a two-story wing with 10 classrooms, and updating restrooms for ADA compliance. O’Meara said these additions could cost about $40 million, with total district costs potentially reaching $49 million after accounting for a 20% escalation in material and labor costs.
