Officials at South Orangetown Middle School have taken disciplinary action after some seventh-grade students distorted the meaning of "National Hug a Jew Day."
The holiday was started last year by the Jewish Journal to promote diversity and religious tolerance. However, school officials say last week some turned the day into "Jump a Jew Day."
Superintendent Ken Mitchell sent a letter home to parents informing them that such actions would not be tolerated. District leaders also visited classrooms to discuss the implications of such remarks.
Officials did not say how many students received disciplinary action.