The principal of Lower Gwynedd Elementary School, located north of Philadelphia, is facing termination after making antisemitic remarks in a voicemail intended for a Jewish parent. The superintendent of the Wissahickon School District, Mwenyewe Dawan, announced her recommendation for immediate dismissal of the principal, identified in reports as Philip Leddy.
In the voicemail, which was shared widely on social media and reported by local news outlets, Leddy made derogatory comments about a Jewish parent, referring to “Jew camp” and suggesting the parent possessed “Jew money” and that “they control the banks.” The comments were made during a private conversation with another school employee, who was not aware that the call had not been properly ended.
Shortly after the incident, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia expressed its concern, stating, “What is most concerning is not only the language itself, but the mindset it reflects.” The statement emphasized the damaging nature of such comments and the implications for families entrusting their children to the school community.
In a statement regarding the incident, Dawan expressed her shock and dismay, emphasizing that the school district received a copy of the voicemail on December 19, 2023. She noted that Leddy had “self-reported” his actions to the administration. “We are deeply concerned about the impact this will have on our school community, and particularly the Jewish members of our community,” Dawan stated.
Leddy was placed on administrative leave pending a hearing scheduled for December 22, 2023, where he will have the opportunity to explain his actions. The employee with whom he spoke has also been placed on paid administrative leave, pending further investigation.
The incident follows previous complaints from parents regarding alleged antisemitic or anti-Israel sentiments in the Wissahickon School District, which serves approximately 5,000 students across Ambler, Whitpain, and Lower Gwynedd. Earlier this year, the school board faced criticism for eliminating a World Studies class that some parents claimed presented a biased perspective of Israeli history. Additionally, a school fair featured a booth by a Muslim Student Association chapter that displayed a Palestinian flag, which raised concerns among Jewish parents.
In light of the recent voicemail incident, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia has called for accountability and further dialogue between the school district and the local Jewish community. They emphasized the need for a meeting where district officials can acknowledge the harm caused and work towards rebuilding trust.
“Words spoken behind closed doors matter,” the Federation stated. “When those words reflect bias, they erode trust and harm entire communities.” They urged the district to commit to comprehensive education on antisemitism and discrimination, stressing that such efforts must be continuous and proactive.
The Federation concluded by highlighting a universal desire among Jewish families: to ensure their children feel respected, supported, and safe at school. Addressing this incident with “clarity, care, and accountability” is essential for restoring confidence and ensuring a learning environment grounded in dignity and respect.
