U.S. Civil Rights Office Investigates Baltimore Schools Over Antisemitic Harassment

The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has initiated an investigation into Baltimore City Public Schools (BCPS) following allegations of persistent antisemitic harassment and discrimination against Jewish students. The probe, announced on August 7, 2025, stems from a complaint filed by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which accuses BCPS of violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by failing to address a hostile environment for Jewish students.

The ADL's complaint details several incidents, including one at Bard High School where a teacher allegedly performed Nazi salutes directed at a Jewish student and made comments about "going all Nazi" on students. Despite an internal investigation confirming the teacher's misconduct, no disciplinary action was taken, and the teacher remains employed. Another incident at Mount Washington School involved non-Jewish students performing Nazi salutes on playgrounds, drawing Nazi symbols on school property, and making statements such as "all Jews should die." These actions reportedly led Jewish students to feel unsafe, with some avoiding certain areas of the school or concealing their identities to prevent harassment.

In response to the allegations, BCPS stated that it "unequivocally rejects antisemitism and hate in any form" and is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment. However, due to ongoing litigation, the district has refrained from commenting further on specific allegations.

Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor expressed strong condemnation of the alleged incidents, stating, "The allegations that Baltimore City Public Schools tolerate virulent Nazi-inspired anti-Semitic harassment of its Jewish students is at once appalling and infuriating... The Trump-McMahon Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights will vigorously investigate this matter and ensure American Jewish students can learn and flourish in an environment free from unlawful discrimination."

This investigation is part of a broader federal effort to address discrimination in educational institutions across the country. The Department of Education has emphasized its commitment to ensuring that all students can learn in an environment free from unlawful discrimination.

The allegations and subsequent investigation highlight ongoing concerns about antisemitism in educational settings. Such incidents can create a hostile environment, affecting students' mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. The case underscores the importance of proactive measures by educational institutions to prevent and address discrimination and harassment.

This is not the first instance of federal intervention in Maryland schools regarding antisemitism. In January 2025, the OCR reached an agreement with Howard County Public Schools to resolve issues of antisemitic harassment, confirming that the school system had received notice of at least 28 incidents during the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 school years.

The investigation into BCPS serves as a critical reminder of the need for vigilance and proactive measures to combat antisemitism and all forms of discrimination in educational settings. Ensuring a safe and inclusive environment is essential for the well-being and success of all students.