ALLEGED ANTI-SEMITIC INSTAGRAM IMAGES SPARK CONCERN AT SOMS

For the second time in two days, an Instagram-related incident of alleged prejudicial comments has sparked concerns in the school district.

This time involving alleged antisemitic comments on an Instagram account of at least one student at South Orange Middle School.

Swastikas on the background of a phone with related Jewish symbols were found on several student phones, with one image from an Instagram account, sources said. There are also allegations of verbal remarks targeting a Jewish student.

A source also said several parents had seen it and reported it to the school administration, which connected the images to at least three SOMS students who were disciplined today.

"It is upsetting to me as a parent that I am having to learn about this from my child and the media instead of from administration," said one SOMS parent. "Children are also fearful of discussing it."

Superintendent John Ramos could not be reached for comment, but School Board Member Annemarie Maini said the district was on top of the issue: "I trust the administration is handling it appropriately. It also relies on students stepping up when something like this makes them uncomfortable."

The incident follows the recent racist Instagram post by two Columbia High School students that drew attention earlier this week and prompted a message from CHS principal Elizabeth Aaron warning against such social media abuse.