New York Judge Censured After Erupting During School Board Meeting, Demanding His Son Be Named Valedictorian

New York Judge Faces Consequences for Outburst at School Board Meeting

A New York judge has been censured by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct following an incident at a school board meeting where he demanded that his son be named valedictorian. Long Beach City Court Judge Corey E. Klein faced censure for “invoking his judicial office in a personal matter involving his son”, as confirmed by a press release on June 9, 2025.

The incident occurred during a live-streamed school board meeting on April 11, 2024. Judge Klein took the microphone during the public question period and raised concerns about the school board’s policies related to COVID and the selection of the valedictorian. He expressed his disappointment that his son was not chosen as valedictorian due to these policies, claiming that they only affected his son.

As Klein attempted to speak further, he was interrupted, and tensions rose. The judge insisted on being addressed by his title, asserting his authority in the situation. Despite attempts to calm the situation, Klein continued to express his grievances, monopolizing the floor for nearly 20 minutes.

The Commission on Judicial Conduct reviewed a formal complaint regarding the incident, where Klein’s behaviour was deemed inappropriate for a judge. He was heard shouting in the background even after his microphone was seemingly turned off, showing a lack of restraint and decorum expected from a judicial officer.

In response to the censure, Klein has been given 30 days to appeal the decision. The Commission’s press release highlighted that the judge had also been censured for misusing his office to assist an acquaintance in a traffic matter, further tarnishing his reputation.

According to Robert H. Tembeckjian, the Commission Administrator, actions like Klein’s erode public confidence in the judiciary. Using one’s judicial position for personal gain or influence, whether in a public argument or a private matter, is deemed irresponsible and unacceptable.

The censure serves as a formal rebuke for Judge Corey E. Klein. While it does not necessitate suspension or removal from office, it underscores the seriousness of his actions and their impact on public trust in the justice system.

Klein, who has served as a judge at Long Beach City Court since 2015, will continue in his role until 2034 despite the censure. The judge now has the opportunity to appeal the decision before any further consequences are determined.

Efforts to reach the New York State Unified Court System for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication. The incident involving Judge Klein serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding standards of conduct and integrity in the judiciary to maintain public trust and confidence.