The School District of Cudahy has placed a middle school employee on administrative leave following a controversial post made on a personal social media account. The post was related to an incident involving conservative activist Charlie Kirk, prompting an official investigation by the district and dividing opinions among parents in the community.
District officials confirmed they are reviewing the matter to determine if any school policies were violated, while emphasizing that the employee's personal views do not represent the school district.
Key Takeaways
- A Cudahy Middle School employee is on administrative leave due to a social media post.
- The district is investigating the post, which was made on a personal account outside of school hours.
- Parents have expressed both support for and opposition to the district's decision.
- The review will assess compliance with district policies on social media and political activity.
District Initiates Formal Review
The School District of Cudahy released a statement confirming its awareness of the social media post. Officials stated they are actively "reviewing the matter to ensure all protocols are followed and to determine the appropriate course of action."
The district's primary goal is to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the post. The employee, who has not been publicly named by the district, will remain on administrative leave for an unspecified period while the review is underway.
Official District Statement
"The School District of Cudahy has become aware of a social media post made by one of its employees regarding the Charlie Kirk incident," the statement reads. "The post, which appeared on the employee’s personal social media account, was not posted during school hours and does not reflect the views or policies of the District."
The administration's review is the first step in a process that could eventually involve the school board, depending on the findings.
Community Divided Over Employee's Conduct
The district's decision has created a split reaction among parents of Cudahy Middle School students. Some parents have expressed strong disapproval of the employee's actions, while others defend their right to personal expression.
Sue Nimphus, a parent, voiced her concern. "Disappointment. More so when I found out he is my daughter's teacher," she said, adding, "Unfortunately, I let the school district know he's not allowed to teach my daughter any longer."
"I hope that they stick to really high standards for our kids," Nimphus stated, emphasizing her expectations for educator conduct.
Conversely, other parents believe the disciplinary action is an overreach, arguing that employees should be free to express their opinions outside of work.
"I didn't believe he got suspended for that. I'm like - really?" said parent Jerry Cook. "I don't think he should be put on leave just because he said some comment about that. He had every right to say what he wanted to say."
School Board Addresses District Policies
School Board President Kari Durr provided further context on the situation, confirming key details of the incident. She stressed the separation between the employee's personal life and their professional role.
"We know the post appeared on the employee's personal social media account and wasn't posted during school hours," Durr explained in a phone interview. "And I just want to also say, it does not reflect the views or policies of the district."
The investigation is expected to focus on specific sections of the employee handbook.
Relevant Employee Policies
- Misrepresentation: Staff are prohibited from posting content that appears to be an official district website or from speaking on behalf of the district without authorization.
- Political Activity: Employees are not allowed to engage in political action while on duty or using school equipment.
Durr clarified the procedural steps, noting that the administration is handling the initial review. "Right now, the administration is reviewing the entire situation. When it's done with its review, then it will come to the board," she said. This indicates that any final decision may require board approval.
Uncertain Future and Ongoing Process
The duration of the employee's administrative leave remains unknown. When asked about a timeline, Durr declined to comment on specific personnel matters but confirmed the process is moving forward.
The district has stated its commitment to maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment for students and staff. In its official communication, the district affirmed that its "primary focus continues to be on providing quality education and ensuring the well-being of all students."
Attempts to reach the employee for comment were unsuccessful. As the investigation continues, the Cudahy community awaits a final decision from the school district, which will likely set a precedent for how it handles similar situations involving employee conduct on social media in the future.
