Sun Sep 15 11:37:40 UTC 2024: ## Department of Education Employees Allegedly Used “Forged Permission Slips” to Take Their Families on Trips Meant for Homeless Students

**New York, NY** – A newly released report by the Special Commissioner of Investigation for New York City schools has revealed a shocking case of alleged fraud and abuse of taxpayer funds. According to the report, six Department of Education (DOE) employees used forged permission slips to take their own children and grandchildren on city-funded trips intended for homeless students.

The trips, which took place between 2016 and 2019, included destinations such as Disney World, Washington, D.C., New Orleans, Boston, Rocking Horse Ranch Resort, and Frost Valley YMCA campground. The Disney World trip alone cost $66,000 for approximately 50 adults and children.

Linda M. Wilson, a Queens supervisor of DOE’s “Students in Temporary Housing,” is alleged to have taken her own two daughters on trips and encouraged colleagues to do the same, even bringing their sons, daughters, and grandchildren. When investigators began asking questions, Wilson allegedly attempted to cover up the scheme, telling coworkers, “What happens here stays with us.” She is accused of instructing employees to lie to investigators about their involvement.

While some homeless students did attend the trips, the investigators found that staff children often took up valuable spots. One DOE educator even had to “beg Wilson to allow him to add two of his students” to the Disney World trip while Wilson and other staff brought their family members.

“Taking money meant for homeless students is extremely inappropriate,” said Naveed Hasan, a Manhattan public-school parent and advocate for students in need of housing. “I’m shocked.”

This incident has sparked outrage among community members and fueled calls for greater accountability within the DOE. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are looking into potential criminal charges against the employees involved.

Read More