Calls to remove Brooklyn superintendent arise from husband’s alleged online harassment of union representative.

Calls for the removal of Acting Superintendent Erin Lynch-Reyes from Brooklyn’s District 21 have intensified following allegations that her husband impersonated another person on social media to criticize a local teachers’ union representative. This controversy has deepened the already significant division within the district, particularly regarding management practices at P.S./I.S. 99 Isaac Asimov School of Science and Literature.

Lynch-Reyes’s candidacy for the permanent superintendent position faced obstacles due to ongoing discontent among teachers at P.S./I.S. 99. Adam Shapiro, the district representative for the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), has become a central figure in this dispute, drawing significant attention from both the union and the community. After reports emerged about the tensions between local teachers and their principal, Hrysoula Niarhos, Lynch-Reyes found herself under scrutiny.

In a bid to defend his wife amid increasing criticism, Lynch-Reyes’s husband, Miguel Reyes, allegedly created a false identity on social media, posing as a school staff member named Jose Tricoche. The union claims he directed personal attacks against Shapiro, which escalated the situation. UFT General Counsel Beth Norton expressed that there is substantial belief within the union that this alias is, in fact, Miguel Reyes.

As the conflict grew, a formal request was submitted by the UFT demanding that the Department of Education cease such deceptive online activity. UFT officials highlighted the negative impact of these actions on the union’s ability to represent its members effectively in District 21.

Since taking over as interim superintendent at the beginning of the school year, Lynch-Reyes has faced mounting challenges, particularly following multiple complaints regarding P.S./I.S. 99’s principal. The school has reportedly been under scrutiny for allegations of mismanagement, prompting discussions among educators across the district. In a show of solidarity, teachers from 30 schools even donned black attire to protest against the working conditions in light of the ongoing situation at P.S./I.S. 99.

Critics argue that Lynch-Reyes’s handling of the complaints has hindered her ability to lead, casting doubt on her suitability for the permanent role. In response to the growing unrest, Lynch-Reyes has attempted to advocate for improvements in educational practices throughout the district, including the implementation of a revamped reading curriculum.

In light of the controversies, a campaign was initiated pushing for Chancellor Kamar Samuels to reconsider the appointment of Lynch-Reyes as the permanent superintendent. The campaign’s messaging reflects a deep concern among community members regarding the values upheld by school leadership.

Despite the allegations against her husband, some community members have defended Lynch-Reyes, citing her extensive experience and commitment to education. They express hope that the current challenges can be managed effectively without undermining her reputation. As the situation evolves, the district remains at a pivotal moment, balancing internal conflicts against the broader objectives of educational excellence and community trust.