Several states took fast action this week to tighten rules on antisemitism and anti-Israel speech in public schools. Earlier today, lawmakers in one state filed a new bill that tells school districts to define antisemitism in their conduct codes and apply it when handling student complaints. The move came after parents pressed local officials for clearer standards.
Another state moved a step further. Its education agency sent updated guidance to every district. The note told principals to review classroom materials, campus groups, and school events for language that targets Jewish students. The message also asked schools to act quickly if they hear anti-Israel chants used in a threatening way.
These new rules aim to give teachers clearer lines to work with and give parents more confidence that schools can respond when trouble starts.