NJ School District Accused of Political Propaganda on Student Computers

A parent has accused the Glen Ridge Public School system in New Jersey of engaging in political propaganda by requiring students to display an image of Democratic Representative Analilia Mejia on their school-issued computers. The alleged incident occurred during Hispanic Heritage Month, several weeks before the November election in which Mejia is a candidate.

The parent, who requested anonymity for fear of retaliation, told The Post that their child’s Spanish teacher threatened disciplinary action, including a trip to the principal's office, if the student changed the desktop background. "We're in the school system because we're the number one public school system in the state. We're here for the education. I'm not here for political propaganda," the parent stated, expressing outrage at what they considered marketing to young children.

The image reportedly featured biographical details about Mejia's career, including her past legislative efforts to raise the minimum wage. According to the parent, the district-provided Chromebooks prevented students from changing the wallpaper.

Mejia, who represents New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, commented that she was honored to be recognized during Hispanic Heritage Month and commended the school district for striving to represent the diversity of the community. "Latinos are integral to New Jersey’s culture, history, and strength," she said.

The image of Mejia was reportedly replaced the following day with a picture of actress Zoe Saldana. The parent speculated this change was a reaction to parental outcry.

Joe Hathaway, Mejia's Republican opponent, criticized the district's actions, comparing the image to propaganda and questioning the appropriateness of political messaging in schools. "Socialist messaging has no place being forced on our kids," Hathaway said. "We need to get back to basics of reading, writing, math, and science, for our children to succeed."

The controversy was first brought to public attention by the social media account Libs of TikTok. Mejia is considered the favorite to win her election against Hathaway in the district, which is rated as a "solid" Democratic seat by the Cook Political Report.