Husband’s alleged online harassment of union representative leads to demands for Brooklyn superintendent’s removal.

Calls for the removal of Erin Lynch-Reyes, the acting superintendent of Brooklyn’s District 21, are intensifying following allegations that her husband engaged in questionable online behavior aimed at a union representative. The controversy emerged amid a challenging bid for Lynch-Reyes to secure the permanent superintendent position, which has been complicated by ongoing tensions between teachers and the principal of a local school.

The situation escalated when Adam Shapiro, the district representative for the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) and a prominent critic of the principal at P.S./I.S. 99, became the subject of personal attacks on social media. Allegedly, Lynch-Reyes’ husband, Miguel Reyes, posed as a school staff member using the alias “Jose Tricoche.” He reportedly utilized this false identity to launch a series of derogatory posts aimed at Shapiro, further complicating an already volatile environment.

Beth Norton, UFT’s general counsel, asserted that there is a good faith basis to believe that the social media user named “Jose Tricoche” is indeed Miguel Reyes. In response to these incidents, the UFT has formally demanded an end to what they described as deceptive communication tactics meant to undermine union representatives.

Despite the mounting scrutiny, both Lynch-Reyes and a spokesperson for the city’s public education system have refrained from commenting on these allegations. Following the UFT’s intervention, reports suggest that the incendiary social media activity has ceased.

Lynch-Reyes, a veteran educator with over two decades of experience, had initially been seen as well-suited for the role of acting superintendent. Prior to assuming this position, she served as the deputy to Isabel DiMola, the former superintendent of District 21, and previously managed significant reforms in the district’s curriculum. However, her reputation is now at stake amidst an ongoing labor dispute involving P.S./I.S. 99, where teachers have voiced serious concerns regarding principal Hrysoula Niarhos’ management style.

In recent months, teachers from across District 21 have rallied in support of their colleagues at P.S./I.S. 99, with actions including wearing black to signal solidarity. As tensions escalated, Lynch-Reyes’ appointment to the permanent position faced delays attributed to the negative attention surrounding the ongoing conflict at the school.

Following the UFT’s formal notice regarding the online behavior of Reyes, a letter campaign was initiated, appealing to Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels not to proceed with Lynch-Reyes’ permanent appointment. Over 256 letters have been sent as part of this now-viral campaign.

While some union members stand firmly behind Shapiro, expressing their disbelief over the allegations against him, others within the community have suggested that the controversy could overshadow the critical issues facing District 21. Prominent voices within the community, including Jay Brown, president of Community Education Council 21, expressed their respect for Lynch-Reyes, citing her experience while acknowledging the difficulties that accompany leadership roles in times of crisis.

As the situation develops, educators within District 21 continue to advocate for a resolution that prioritizes the educational environment while holding accountable those in positions of authority. The outcome of these events may not only affect Lynch-Reyes’ future but will likely have implications for the broader relationship between district leadership and its educators.