Hate Symbol at Long Island School: Investigation Underway

A swastika was discovered in a boys' restroom at Matlin Middle School in Plainview-Old Bethpage on Monday morning, Nov. 2, according to Superintendent Mary O’Meara. The symbol was found earlier in the day after two students alerted faculty members to the drawing.

Police were notified of the discovery, and an investigation is currently active. Board President Seth Greenberg confirmed the status of the inquiry during a Monday board meeting. He stated that the district treats incidents involving hate symbols with high priority, noting that such conduct opposes the school's commitment to student safety and belonging.

Trustee Karen Reiss Medwed described the incident as small but emphasized the emotional impact on the community. She urged parents to discuss the ramifications of the symbol with their children, citing the intrusion of hate into the local environment. “We like our bubble, and we get very distressed when that’s intruded upon with hate, whether it’s in a symbol, in a spoken word or, God forbid, in an act of violence,” Medwed said.

O’Meara noted the timing of the discovery was particularly upsetting because it occurred only days after the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center presented on symbols of hate at the same school. The district plans to continue educating students about antisemitism. The Jewish Community Relations Council has reached out to offer support to the school community.

The superintendent explained that identifying the responsible students is a common challenge in such investigations. However, she emphasized that consequences are swift and serious once students are identified. These consequences may include re-education opportunities, a superintendent’s hearing, or a suspension of more than five days, depending on the student's age and the circumstances.

During the same board meeting, officials proposed capital projects for John F. Kennedy High School. These plans include expanding the cafeteria, adding a two-story wing with 10 classrooms, and installing a band and orchestra room. The District Facilities Committee also suggested updating restrooms for ADA compliance and relocating fields affected by the construction.

O’Meara reported that nearly 71 percent of approximately 1,000 residents surveyed would tolerate spending less than $50 million on the improvements. The estimated cost for the additions and field relocations is about $40 million, with total project costs expected between $45 million and $49 million. These estimates include a 20 percent escalation factor for rising material and labor costs.