The Mountain View–Los Altos (MVLA) Board passed 2023-2024 Resolution 12, last Monday, October 16, endorsing Biden’s statements on recent Hamas terrorist attacks and affirming MVLA’s support for families affected.

In Biden’s remarks, he condemned the Hamas attacks, expressing support for Jewish Israelis and their “right to respond” from the “vicious attacks” by “the bloody hands of the terrorist organization Hamas.” 

During public discussion, Jewish families and individuals spoke in support of passing the resolution while expressing disappointment toward a community letter sent to MVLA families by Superintendent Nellie Meyer, criticizing the District’s lack of open Israeli support and neutrality surrounding the Hamas attacks.

“The MVLA Jewish population does not feel safe and we need help,” senior Shay Manor said. “We need to see the District stand by us, and the only acceptable way to do that is a stronger statement condemning terrorism and supporting Israel.” 

Students and parents voiced their recent deep feelings of isolation and fear, experiencing little school support during emotionally difficult times.

“The past week has been an intense struggle for myself and the entire Jewish community,” junior Talia Frank said. “Every single Jew or Israeli I know has been affected by it and is suffering in some way.”

“There was not a single educator that asked my kids, ‘How are you doing?’” Los Altos High School parent Yael Garten said. “I don’t believe the classroom has to foster these kinds of complex discussions, but I am shocked that the heads of our school didn’t lead by example and send a clear message of support to our Jewish community.”

Additionally, speakers raised awareness for victims of the Hamas attacks, many who were close family or friends.

“Daniel was a daughter of a friend and a Palo Alto resident,” MVLA parent Guy Miasnik said. “She was murdered because she was a Jew.” 

Many speakers urged the release of an updated community letter with a firm statement of support toward Jewish people, recognizing the attacks and addressing their impacts on the greater MVLA community.

“The resolution was penned by [Board President] Dr. Phil Faillace himself,” Board Vice President Sanjay Dave said. “Our Board stands against terrorism, against Hamas, against any group whose stated purpose is to kill Jews.”