Students in Trouble after Classmate Slapped for 'Hit a Jew' Day

By Sharon Stevens, Education Reporter

KSDK -- Some students face possible disciplinary action, including possible suspension, following a school prank that ended with one child being slapped in the face.

It happened Monday at Parkway West Middle School. Some kids called it 'Hit a Jew' Day. At least three children were hit during the incident, all of whom were Jewish. Two were tapped on the shoulder or arm, but one child was slapped in the face.

School principal Linda Lelonek said it started last week. The sixth graders decided to have a 'Hug a Friend' day. Then it was 'High-Five Day,' but teachers did not know what was going on until several kids were hit.

Lelonek called a school assembly Tuesday morning to talk about religious diversity and inappropriate behavior. And school officials promised there would be consequences for those responsible.

Educators said they do not believe the incident was done with hatred or prejudice.

There are fewer than 30 Jewish students at Parkway West Middle School, which has an enrollment of 850 students.