In a shocking revelation, it has been discovered that employees of the New York City public school system used Disney trips designated for homeless students for their own families' enjoyment. A report released by the district's special commissioner this month detailed how six employees took their children or grandchildren on trips to Disney World, New Orleans, and other destinations that were intended to be enriching experiences for students living in shelters and temporary housing.

According to the report, Linda Wilson, the regional manager responsible for assisting students in temporary housing in Queens, not only availed the sponsored trips for her own children but also encouraged her subordinates to do the same. The trips were allegedly funded with grants specifically earmarked for homeless students. The report quotes a staff member who claimed Wilson told them, "What happens here stays with us," indicating a culture of secrecy surrounding the misconduct.

To carry out this dubious scheme, Wilson allegedly forged permission slips in the names of students and enlisted the help of an external contractor to book the trips. By bypassing the city's Department of Education and utilizing community-based organizations, Wilson likely believed there would be less oversight of their activities.

The investigation into this matter commenced in May 2019 after the Department of Education received a whistleblower complaint exposing the misconduct. It concluded in January of the following year, and the report has recommended the termination of Wilson and the five other employees involved in the fraud. Additionally, it suggests that the DOE should seek reimbursement for all expenses incurred by the department due to these wrongful actions.

NPR reached out to both the special commissioner's office and the Department of Education for further comment on the matter, including clarification as to why the report was only released last week. The NYC Public Schools Press Office stated that it would provide a comprehensive response as soon as possible. Attempts to contact Linda Wilson for additional comments have also been made.

This alarming news raises significant concerns about the misuse of resources intended to support vulnerable students in need. It highlights the importance of stringent oversight and accountability within educational institutions to ensure that such incidents do not occur and that funds reach their intended beneficiaries.