A congressional investigation has uncovered evidence of antisemitism, anti-Israel activism, and radical political indoctrination in American public schools, raising serious concerns about what children are being taught and whether Jewish students are adequately protected.
The House Committee on Education and the Workforce released a report Wednesday detailing troubling curriculum materials and activities within public school districts in California and Pennsylvania, as well as the National Education Association (NEA), the nation’s largest teachers’ union.
The investigation followed a reported 135% increase in antisemitic incidents in American schools during 2023, particularly after Hamas terrorists attacked Israel on October 7.
Schools Accused of Promoting Radical Ideology
In Philadelphia, congressional investigators found curriculum materials that portrayed violent resistance as legitimate political activism. Some lessons encouraged students to examine social identities through categories of oppression and privilege, identifying Christians, white people, and males as dominant groups.
In Berkeley, California, investigators discovered instructional materials that included the children’s book P Is for Palestine, featuring the phrase “I is for Intifada.” Other lessons allegedly minimized Palestinian terrorism and presented controversial anti-Israel slogans as expressions of freedom.
The committee also examined the National Education Association, which represents more than three million educators and administrators. Investigators criticized the union’s handling of antisemitism complaints and its opposition to certain educational resources produced by the Anti-Defamation League.
Committee Chairman Rep. Tim Walberg (R-Mich.) condemned the findings, arguing that taxpayer-funded schools must focus on education rather than political activism and protect Jewish students from discrimination.
Philadelphia Superintendent Tony Watlington disputed allegations that the district’s curriculum indoctrinated students, while acknowledging plans to standardize instructional materials and address personnel concerns.
The congressional findings come amid growing international concern over antisemitism. A separate study reported by The Times of Israel found that online antisemitism reached record levels during the third quarter of 2026, underscoring the broader climate of hostility facing Jewish communities.
The House committee pledged to continue investigating federally funded schools and consider additional measures to ensure compliance with federal civil rights protections.
