NYC School Principal Removed After Antisemitism Turmoil, Replaced With Muslim Educator

Origins High School Principal Out Amidst Antisemitism Scandal

The interim principal of Origins High School in Brooklyn, Dara Kammerman, is stepping down after 11 years at the school. This comes amidst a wave of controversy regarding rampant antisemitism and anti-LGBTQ hate within the school's walls.

The Post reported in March that Kammerman had failed to address incidents of abuse targeting Jewish and LGBTQ students and teachers. Students reported being called slurs, having an Israeli flag torn down, and witnessing swastikas drawn in classrooms. In one instance, Kammerman even dismissed a teen's antisemitic taunting of a teacher as an “academic conversation”.

Two staff members, Danielle Kaminsky and Michael Beaudry, who spoke out against the ongoing abuse, were removed from the school. They subsequently filed a lawsuit against the Department of Education alleging retaliation for whistleblowing.

A New Beginning?

Kammerman's departure follows the lawsuit and a growing public outcry over the school's climate. Her replacement, Ahmed Elmaliki, is a former English teacher with limited experience as an assistant principal. Elmaliki, a child of Yemeni immigrants, hopes to foster a culture of diversity and collaboration at Origins.

While Elmaliki remains hopeful about the future of the school, questions remain about the effectiveness of his leadership in addressing the ongoing issues. Some, like City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov, believe that the DOE has failed to adequately address the problem.

“Nobody is fooled by this ridiculous transfer/promotion, which instead of issuing consequences, rewards the culpable party,” Vernikov stated.

It remains to be seen whether Elmaliki can bring about positive change at Origins. The school, with its large Muslim student population, has a complex history and needs dedicated leadership to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students.