Police say swastikas were found at an elementary school in Midwood on Monday morning.

They say the calls for the swastika graffiti in P.S. 217's courtyard came in just before 9:30 a.m.

Family members of students at the school, like Mariam Badool, say hateful symbols can have a negative impact on younger children.

"It has a very bad affect on the next generation. We shouldn't spread hate, we should spread love. We are all the same. We should respect others, you know," said Badool.

A spokesperson for the New York City Department of Education released the following statement:

"Hate has no place in our city. Upon the discovery of swastikas that were drawn over the weekend in a public playground adjacent to a school, NYPD was immediately called and responded. The swastikas were removed, and we will provide supports to any students or staff who needs it."