At a two-hour House hearing on antisemitism in public schools on Wednesday, the New York City schools chief, David C. Banks, made one thing very clear: He was ready to fight.

In an unyielding and fiery tone, Mr. Banks challenged lawmakers and questioned their versions of events. He forcefully denied accusations that the district had poorly responded to hateful incidents. And in several heated exchanges, he unapologetically spoke over members of the House as they asked questions.