Letter from MCPS Staff Member

 As staff members in MCPS, we were required to attend a Professional Development Day on Monday about anti-racism, equity, and inclusion. There was zero mention, discussion, or words of comfort about the atrocities and terror that is occurring in Israel. Principals sent out mandatory "resources" (many of them political) but were left to curate the message as they wanted. 

The message below was sent out at 4:00pm yesterday. I attended a meeting with the MCJEA (Montgomery County Jewish Educators Association) with over 230 people in attendance soon after. Many Jewish staff feel completely alone and unsupported. Many see and are calling out the continuous evidence that Jews don't matter in this county's school system. MCPS has experienced an unprecedented rise in antisemitism in the past year and has done virtually nothing. 

Regardless of political beliefs, Jewish staff and students should not have to face antagonistic co-workers or peers in a time when our hearts are broken and Israel is facing unprecedented horror. 

I urge you to reach out to the superintendent and the Board of Education to share your outrage about the non-existent or soft messages coming from MCPS. They need to hear from all Jewish community members. 

monifa_b_mcknight@mcpsmd.org

karla_silvestre@mcpsmd.org

boe@mcpsmd.org

A Message of Vigilance and Respect

from Montgomery County Public Schools

OCTOBER 11, 2023

Dear Families, Students and Staff,

As superintendent of schools, my primary concern is for the physical and emotional well-being of students and staff. So today, I am reaching out and urging you to be vigilant regarding distressing social media content (including videos and images) emanating from the terrorist attacks on innocent civilians in Israel. We are all aware that such content is intended to amplify fear and can cause great emotional harm. I urge you to talk with your children and students about the content they may currently be viewing and sharing. 

As we collectively continue to process these horrific and violent acts, I recognize that the situation in Israel and Gaza has affected many members of our community, including those who have family or friends in the region. Their loss, grief and apprehensions for their loved ones' safety are profound. It is impossible to ignore the fear and anxiety that many within our community are experiencing directly, and as they are exposed to stories of violence and the tragic loss of innocent lives through television, news outlets and social media.

Our work to provide school communities with resources and assistance for those in need has already begun, including providing school leaders with tools and support to assist staff and students. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our school counselors, social workers, or administrators if your child requires any support.

Let us come together to support one another. This is a moment when we must remember our common values of empathy, compassion and respect for one another.

In partnership,

Dr. Monifa B. McKnight
MCPS Superintendent of Schools