American Jewish Committee (AJC) Palm Beach, in partnership with the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County and the Jewish Women’s Foundation (JWF), proudly launched Empowered Parents in South Palm Beach County. This groundbreaking program equips parents and grandparents to confront anti-Jewish and anti-Israel rhetoric in schools. The kickoff event drew parents, grandparents, and community leaders to the Federation campus, signaling just how deeply this issue resonates within the community.

The program featured a powerful discussion with Dr. Laura Shaw Frank, Vice President of AJC’s Center for Education Advocacy (CEA), and Kimberly Coombs, K–12 Holocaust Studies Program Planner for the School District of Palm Beach County. The conversation was moderated by Emily Glassman, AJC Palm Beach Board Member and graduate of AJC’s Comay Fellowship. Together, the panel offered both a national and local perspective on the challenges Jewish students face today, and the vital role parents play in ensuring accurate representation, inclusion, and safety in educational settings.

Opening remarks were delivered by Igor Alterman, President & CEO of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, who underscored the urgency of this initiative in the wake of rising antisemitism. “Our children are navigating increasingly hostile environments,” Alterman said. “As parents, educators, and leaders, we cannot afford to stay silent. Programs like this empower families with the knowledge and tools to take meaningful action.”

Laurence Milstein, Regional Director of AJC Palm Beach, expanded on AJC’s global advocacy mission and the vision behind Empowered Parents. “This program helps Jewish parents turn concern into confident, constructive engagement,” Milstein shared. “Through education and dialogue, we’re building a network of advocates who can make a real impact within their schools and communities.”

Event Co-Chairs Bryan and Joanna Drowos shared remarks on behalf of their fellow Co-Chairs, Josh and Emily Glassman and Rabbi Baruch and Shayndel Plotkin, emphasizing the power of community action. “ Your presence, your engagement, and your commitment to these vital issues are what drive real change,” said Bryan Drowos. “We hope tonight marks the beginning of a deeper connection with AJC and the Empowered Parents initiative.”

The discussion between Dr. Shaw Frank and Glassman explored how antisemitism and misinformation have infiltrated classrooms nationwide, while Coombs provided a local lens into Holocaust education and inclusion across Palm Beach County’s public schools. Audience members engaged in a robust Q&A session that reflected both urgency and commitment among parents eager for practical tools and guidance.

The Empowered Parents initiative will continue in early 2026 with a three-part workshop series hosted by AJC experts. These interactive sessions will guide participants in constructive advocacy, help them engage effectively with educators, and deepen their understanding of Jewish history, antisemitism, and Israel education.

This important launch was generously supported by the Jewish Women’s Foundation of South Palm Beach County.

For more information about Empowered Parents and upcoming sessions, contact Debbie Koristz, Associate Director, Advocacy and Programming, AJC Palm Beach, at koristzd@ajc.org or 561-994-4776.