A recording of a Lower Gwynedd Elementary School principal speaking antisemitic remarks has sparked a swift response from the Wissahickon School District and community leaders.
Background of the Incident
The principal, Philip Leddy, self-reported the issue after a voicemail he was leaving for a parent was interrupted. He thought the call had disconnected and then spoke to a staff member, during which the recorded antisemitic remarks were allegedly made. The conversation was captured on a recording that the district has released to the public.
Staffer’s Status
The staffer who was present in the conversation has been placed on administrative leave. The district has said that the staffer’s future employment remains uncertain while the matter is investigated.
Hearing and Termination Process
The district is moving toward terminating Principal Leddy. A hearing is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 22, at which the case will be formally reviewed. The superintendent, Dr. Mwenyewe Dawan, has emphasized that the incident is concerning but does not reflect the overall character of the school community.
Partnerships and Training
To address such incidents proactively, the Wissahickon School District has partnered with the Anti-Defamation League and faith leaders. The district has also offered staff training aimed at preventing future occurrences and reinforcing a culture of respect.
ADL Statement
“No one promoting antisemitic rhetoric should be leading and teaching our children. ADL Philadelphia has worked with the Wissahickon School District administration over the years, and we are relieved that the district is working quickly to address alleged antisemitic statements made by a school administrator. We are urging them to fully investigate the situation, take appropriate systemic action, and meet with Jewish families to begin the process of rebuilding trust,” ADL Philadelphia’s senior regional director Dr. Andrew Goretsky wrote in a statement.
Jewish Federation Statement
“What is most concerning is not only the language itself, but the mindset it reflects. The comments rely on well-known antisemitic stereotypes that reduce a parent to caricature and signal hostility rather than respect. For a family entrusting their child to a school community, hearing this kind of language, particularly from a principal, is profoundly unsettling,” the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia wrote in a statement.
Superintendent’s Perspective
“The superintendent says that this incident is concerning, but she believes the majority of staffers are loving and caring. She said that this case does not reflect the entire school community,” the district noted.
NBC10 Outreach
NBC10 reached out to Principal Leddy for comment and is awaiting a response. The station’s reporting has highlighted the district’s swift actions and the broader community’s reaction.
Key Takeaways
- The principal’s antisemitic remarks were captured on a recording and are under investigation.
- A hearing to determine termination is set for Dec. 22.
- The district has engaged the ADL, faith leaders, and staff training to address the issue.
The situation remains under close scrutiny as the Wissahickon School District works to uphold a safe and inclusive environment for all students and families.
