Boulder JCC Statement on ADL-BVSD Settlement

We are relieved to share that the Boulder Valley School District (BVSD) and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) have reached a settlement agreement regarding the Title VI complaint filed this past June, which included incidents of severe antisemitic harassment, physical assault, and district inaction. As we have begun the new school year and approach Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, this update comes at a meaningful time for our community.

First and foremost, we want to acknowledge the immense bravery of the family who brought this matter forward. Their willingness to speak up was driven by a desire to ensure every student in BVSD, Jewish students and all students, can learn in a safe environment free from antisemitism, bullying, harassment, and discrimination. Their courage also empowered other families to share their own experiences, ensuring these issues were fully confronted rather than repeated. As a community we are grateful.

We applaud BVSD, its Board of Education, and Superintendent Dr. Rob Anderson for taking swift accountability and partnering directly with the ADL to reach a settlement and implement meaningful solutions. We are particularly grateful for BVSD’s six-part plan to address antisemitism and the progress the District has already made in executing these critical steps. Their dedication to resolving this matter quickly helps secure a safer, more supportive school year for our children. 

Additionally, we thank Superintendent Dr. Rob Anderson and his team for establishing the Superintendent’s Advisory Group on Antisemitism. This working group will bring together leaders from Jewish communal organizations, including Susan Rona, Regional Director, ADL Mountain States, and a representative from the Boulder JCC, alongside key representatives from the Superintendent’s office. The group will serve as a dedicated forum for open, ongoing dialogue to directly address and combat antisemitism across the District.

We also express our deepest gratitude to the ADL for tirelessly advocating alongside this family, as well as our entire Jewish community, its leaders, organizations, and the parents who offered unwavering support to the family and community throughout this process. Community collaboration was vital to reaching this resolution.

As this complaint demonstrated, action starts with documentation. When we report incidents, we create an undeniable record that compels administrations to act. If you or your child experiences or witnesses any form of antisemitism or bias, please do not stay silent.

For full settlement details, please read the full resolution agreement between the ADL and BVSD.

Resources for Reporting and Support:

• School District Reporting: First, submit formal reports directly to your local school district administration (BVSD, SVVSD, JeffCo). This ensures local principals, administrators, and educators are notified and legally required to follow up.
• ADL Incident Reporting: Second, report directly to the ADL at adl.org/report-incident. The ADL tracks these trends meticulously and uses this data to step in and advocate for our community. Reporting to the ADL is confidential, and nothing will be disclosed without your express permission. 
• Safe2Tell Colorado: Anonymously report any safety concerns or harassment online at safe2tell.org or by calling 1.877.542.7233. This is a vital tool utilized by school districts and law enforcement across Colorado

With gratitude,

Jonathan Lev, Boulder JCC Executive Director
David Paul, Boulder JCC Board Chair