001[Applause] [Music] Reminder everyone, a reminder if you would like to during public commentary. The sign sheet right outside if you would like to speak tonight during public commentary just reminder the sign she's right outside. Okay, thank you. [Applause] >> Just testing one more time for everyone that wants to speak tonight. Public commentary sound sheet is right. >> Okay. Are we ready to begin? >> No. I would like to say something if possible. [Applause] >> Can we fix it? We can't hear. I can't hear. >> Are we live? >> Yep. >> Oh, there we go. Can you hear? Can you hear me? >> You can't hear >> now? I'm good. quickly. I want to thank everyone for coming out tonight, but unfortunately given recent statements made by someone at this table and their clear disregard for
002human life, I cannot in good conscience remain seated here. Having lived through similar struggles myself very recently, I know the real harm that such words can cause and I cannot sit beside someone who spreads them. As a board of education, we are entrusted with representing our students and modeling respect and responsibility. When that is not upheld, our mission is undermined. If this individual remains on the board, I will be forced to reconsider my own position. Please excuse me for You shrug your shoulders as if you have some sort of grounds for that. You should be disgusted with yourself. >> Please, please, please. >> Okay. Meeting call to order at 7:34. Roll call. >> Couldn't walk a mile. >> Steven Corbell, Rob Coleman, and Jason. Okay. Uh, can we rise for the pledge >> allegiance to
003the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. [Applause] >> Say it loud. >> Good evening. Uh due to the large number of people have who have come out tonight for public commentary, we decided to move the public commentary to immediately follow board announcements. The board and superintendent have received a very large number of emails regarding a correspondence, emails and correspondence regarding a post made by one of our board members last week on social media. A statement was released to let the public know we were aware of the situation. The superintendent would like to make a statement followed by the board. >> So, I just want to begin tonight uh by echoing Mr. Finn's comments. We have
004heard all of your concerns. We were um received of hundreds of emails and felt uh the need to make sure that you all knew we were aware of the situation, that we were working as fast as possible to move the district forward and focus on what matters most, our students. I do want to share tonight and I did at our our first board meeting of the year last year when we had our school leaders come up to talk about how wonderful the opening of school was in the first day of school. And I talked about our district's vision and mission. And I want to repeat that the South Orangetown Central School District's vision and mission is to elevate, engage, and inspire our students by building a culture of high expectations that value healthy, productive, and
005supportive relationships among students, staff, and families, and to provide students with access to personalized learning experiences to reach their full potential as responsible citizens and lifelong learners. This is our north star. My role as a superintendent of schools is to ensure that we continue to focus on what matters most, our students. And I'm committed to doing that with all of you. And at that that concludes my statement. >> Um, anyone else that would like to make anyone? It's it's your choice to make a brief statement according to public commentary. No, I think public commentary is most important right now. >> Okay. >> Yeah, I just, you know, I actually had some prepared remarks, but I wanted to sort of see everyone tonight before I said anything. >> And I've been getting a lot of emails,
006let's just say that my email box is absolutely overflowing. And one of the big things that sticks out to me that I sort of like want to correct or sort of guide us for the public commentary at least hopefully is everyone saying someone's first amendment rights are being, you know, put under the test by the school district. No one told this individual that they couldn't post that thing. Okay? He had the right to make the post. I'm already supporter of the prosecution. >> Hold on. Hang on. Hold on. >> Hold on. Okay. If you're an ardent supporter of the Constitution, he could write whatever he wants to write. >> I can't even finish. >> According to Citizens United, the other people who have first amendment rights are corporations, nonprofits, unions. They have first amendment rights,
007too. So everyone can say whatever they want, but that doesn't there's also a correlary to that. Everyone can have the whatever reaction they want to that speech and take whatever action they want accordingly. So the idea that someone's first amendment rights are being infringed is a completely non-starter. The school district says he could put that whatever he wants on his page. That doesn't mean the district has to like it. That doesn't mean that any of the um students have to like it, teachers, and it doesn't mean it frees him from actions against said speech. And I think this is really important because people are saying you're infringing personally, me, Mr. Coleman, getting emails saying you're infringing someone's first amendment rights. That is not true. Okay, this is not true. The district is not infringing his
008rights. Now, the district can do whatever it wants based, okay, on whatever is said, okay? because he said those things whether it be also whether it be in a public or private scenario doesn't matter either it is now in the public form so that's my first point no one's first amendment rights are being >> except Charlie Kirk when he got shot >> so the other thing that I would say and the the the real reason we're here tonight is he used a word that is highly charged political speech, right? It's purposely inflammatory. Okay. It carries with it the idea of genocide, mass murder, and it's being was used in a glib statement. >> This is this is smug. Fair enough. Same word. Okay. >> As in painful. >> This is my opinion. This is my
009opinion as an individual board member. And so the question the question that remains is as a school board me as school board representative we should be held to the highest standard of decorum. Right? >> Stop tap dancing. So the the last point would be that you know we're volunteers. The whole purpose of being on the board is to serve the children. Okay. Actually like to make sure the budget is efficient that our children are being educated in this whole thing needs to be stopped correct objectively. Objectively not inflammatory hate objectively children. >> Right. So how about we do this? How about we he offers a rebuttal because we hear that he's going to sit here and talk and try to come out with some sort of back up his claim. >> That's interesting to us.
010Let's hear him. Fair enough. I want to stop two three more sentences. >> Yeah. Three more. >> Is that I was being told that I'm infringing first amendment right. >> Okay. And I wanted to make a statement that I feel that that word is absolutely hate speech that has no place being used on the school board. And that's it. Next comment. >> Uh yeah, I'll make a comment. >> Um can I just say too um you all want to speak and I understand the emotions. Um if you can let him speak, you will absolutely have your moment. You will give everyone their time to speak. Okay. If if you interrupt, it'll just take longer and the people will have to wait longer. So, I'm sure you this has to be embarrassing. >> It has to
011be. >> Well, um f first things first. Um >> represent the school. >> Piggy applause. >> Mr. Blue said um and I I do want to congratulate all of our teachers and administrators on >> success. [Applause] Exactly what he wants. >> Land the plane. Let's go. Let's hear it. Land the plane. >> All right. Uh so yeah. So the the last time we were here was the first day. Um and it was uh exciting but still full of chaos. And over the last two weeks, it's been, you know, great to see our neighborhoods uh really come back alive. I see kids catching up with their friends, catching up with neighbors. >> So, I just want to thank thank everyone for that. It's been [Applause] public commentary. Let me get to the public commentary. >> Just
012dragging it out. [Applause] >> Interrupting. >> Thank you. Um >> yeah. And so the next thing I wanted to say was to thank all of you who are here uh tonight. Uh you know, open honest conversation and feedback is the function of our elected office. And I appreciate all of you taking the time out to be here. I'm sure you have places you'd rather be, but it's important. >> Um, >> and that brings us, of course, the question, why? >> This is going to be every single meeting until you're out. Many people have been upset by a screenshot of a private country >> every circulating on social media in the school. >> But before I speak to that, I want to address some deliberate misinformation that seems to have been spread. [Applause] I'm sorry. >>
013You guys are joking. So let me start by reiterating the opening statement of that post that was shared. >> Your sister's leaving. >> He was a human being and no human being deserves to be murdered. >> That Eric and Kirk and her children had to witness the death of their husband and father. >> I wouldn't want my own girls to witness the death of their husband or their father and grow up without their father. And I do not want that for the Kirk family or for any of the families in this country that have been victimized by our epidemic. Unless >> they're Nazis or fascist. Go on. >> I also want to say upfront that I do not believe a personal opinion shared in a private forum about who might or might not deserve a
014public official >> has any bearing on the business of the South Orange County School District. You were elected. You were elected. [Music] >> I do understand that my description of Mr. Kirk's deeply problematic and polarizing public statements have offended some in our community. [Applause] >> Unbelievable. That's not used. >> I used a word with a profound history that is connected to the trauma of our word. >> It is a word that should not be used. >> And I regret any >> I realize of course that not everyone sees things as I do. And while the record of Mr. speech seems crystal clear to me, >> I am not so foolish as to believe there is only one way to decipher that. >> Could have fooled us. >> People bring different experiences and values to their
015interpretation and reasonable minds can differ even sharply. >> This is the basic tenant of a fair and free democracy. Mr. Kirk is a divisive figure and the differences in [Applause] he going to collect Step down. >> Resign. You have no knowledge of free speech. >> I can't. [Applause] >> Is it funny? I just want to add one more thing to record. >> The fact that calls for my resignation have come less than a year after another board member was driven from our board out of fear. Some in our community would like to see us take the license. >> But I think I'm down. >> No, I think we can give our children a better example of what can happen when there is disagreement. >> Some example calling good Nazis. By calling good men Nazis. Is
016that >> this agreement does not have to mean >> you're disgusting now? [Applause] >> Yes, we're we are on board. That's right. So, >> yes, he's out of war. Let's just get to public comment. >> I feel great responsibility to our community and I genuinely welcome the opportunity for good faith conversation. >> We serve our community for Nazis. [Applause] >> All right. Hey, no remorse, no apology. Get him out of here. Get out. >> Is that when a member of the audience said that this will happen every day, he said good. >> And that is completely unacceptable. Heat. [Applause] He could be spending his time on our children, not wasting on you. [Applause] >> Nazi apologizing. >> No apology. >> No remorse. [Applause] All of you up here, sit next to this man as if
017he's some sort of >> friend. I don't understand it. He's making you all look ridiculous. You all look ridiculous for sitting next to this man. It's ridiculous. >> We look like a joke. >> You look like a joke. But you look like big jokes. >> Sorry. Oh, pardon me. Pardon me. My mistake. >> My mistake. >> Let Mr. Finn take us to public commentary, please. >> Sure. >> Yeah. Let's hear from us from everybody. >> Thank you. >> All right. Thank you guys. >> Slugly sitting there eyeballing rolling his eyes, laughing all behavior. >> Everyone should be an active listener. Each person is responsible for his or her behavior. Respect diverse perspectives. Be conscious of your speaking time and tone. A limit of three minutes is an appropriate time frame to state your issue. Speakers
018may not give unused time to other speakers. Just a little uh so you're aware that's the timer right there. When it when it goes to >> red >> issues of specific personnel, either positive or negative, cannot be discussed at board meetings. References, comments, or discussion that does or may identify specific student or students by name or situation will not be discussed publicly due to purple law. Issues pertaining to specific students should be addressed privately with the student's teacher, principal, or school counselor in accordance with policy 1400. Public concerns before bringing the issue to the superintendent's attention. The board reserves the right to close comments on an issue if residents become unruly or disrespectful or if the topic is something that the board is legally unable to discuss in public. If an unusual number of people
019are attending to bring forth a specific issue, the number of speakers could be limited. Depending on the number of people wishing to speak during public commentary, the board reserves the right to reduce the time limit on each speaker until everyone is heard. The sole purpose of public commentary is for the board to actively listen to the community. Meeting protocol requires that questions presented to the board during public commentary will be responded to when possible. At the board's discretion, questions requiring investigations will be referred to the superintendent and will be responded to in a timely fashion through future board meetings electronic mail, mail, or telephonically provided the contact information is supplied on the public commentary signup sheet. Um, just to add because there's so many people here and because we don't usually use that, if you
020by any chance don't happen to see the red, I'll just give you one gabble. Just, you know, kind of finish your statement right around there. We're looking to hear from everyone. We don't want to stop anyone from speaking. We want to give you the opportunity. So, please, and I apologize if I mispronounce anyone's name. I have a Roger Deonus. >> Will you come up to the mic? >> Those who know me, you know, I I sing professionally, so I have no problem with a mic. Um, good evening, Mr. Superintendent, school board members, residents of the South Orangetown Central School District. As a former member of this very board here close to 20 years ago, I'm here to bring to light not the merits of the words of Charlie Kirk, not to debate our ideological differences,
021nor to add to the vitriol that this heinous, horrific assassination of Mr. Kirk hased upon America. The fact of the matter is that Mr. Savage made reference to Mr. Kirk as a Nazi. This disturbing Facebook post speaks to the ignorance of many who say it with zero context of the absolutely demonic attributes of Hitler and the National Socialist Party aka Madison. That word has absolutely no place in public discourse and especially on the school board. a concept that Charlie Kirk, love or hate him, both embraced and excelled by his calm, open-minded approach to his campus ministry. He would call it a ministry. Oh, and by the way, as far as Nazi and Hitler, ask even uh this guy, Senator Federman, stroke it all, the guy's the only guy that's making any sense on the left
022side. So, I am compelled to say that this should not be a character assassination of Mr. Savage. I understand people say inappropriate, even downright terrible things when reacting to such a spectacle of violence and evil. And when they disagree from the New York State School Board Association, quote, "Public officials, including school board members, are expected to uphold a higher standard of conduct than the general public." Mr. Mr. Savage failed to meet this standard. And also, by the way, school board um association talking about free speech and the rules, etc. Well, unprotected free speech includes harassment or defamation, statements that are harassing or create a hostile environment. I think this counts as one. or they are false and damaging to someone's reputation. >> Charlie Kirk, whether you like him or not, did not deserve this by
023absolutely no way, shape, or form should he have been treated this poorly. But that being said, I just think that this disgraceful rhetoric that we have seen in this post has no place in any school in the United States of America. I'm sorry. It's zero tolerance policy as far as I'm concerned. And I really think you need to either, in the words of Charlie probably, repent or resign. Thank you very much. [Music] I know a lot of people here. Thank you for your time. I I have a hef he >> I'm sorry I miss M Mr. Hefernet. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Thank you. >> So good evening guys. Um, most people have already represented some of the things that I would like to mention, but my comments or questions go directly to the superintendent. Um,
024this man sitting all the way down here on the left, right? He represents the board. He represents the school. I have to explain I have to explain things to children, my children. I moved here only a few months ago specifically for this school district. Not for that code of conduct for the students. But we let vile comments like that just skate right by. Who does this guy know? Who does he know? Like I don't understand. It baffles me. Excuse me. Um, from I'd like to know how we have a board a board member who from what I understand because I'm new to this district um is in charge of curriculum can can then voice his personal opinion for the district because that's what he's doing because he sits on the board. How can I, as
025a parent of two children, be assured that he's not going to try and push his wacky opinions on our youth of today? And what are you and you going to do about it? >> Right. That's right. >> What are your two personal opinions? And what are you going to do about it? And as far as freedom of speech goes, nobody cares about his freedom of speech. We don't care that he said it. We care about how he said it for here at the board. That's what we care about. We don't care about Joe Schmo that lives next door that called him a Nazi. Nobody cares. But he sits on this board and he's representing this school district that I so proudly overpaid for a house. I want to know people coming to me saying that
026this is his best friend. I want to know who does he know anywhere else in America. That doesn't fly. >> Answer him. >> Who does he know? >> Answer the question. >> These were very simple. These were very simple. He represents the board and what are is there no action plan? I mean, you guys have you guys sat here and said that you have overflowing emails. Nobody's thought about it. Just now >> answer the question. >> Answer. >> I'm just going to make sure everyone's aware. We have been working on this since >> That's not an answer. >> It's a not answer. >> That's not an answer. >> We have further answers when >> No, we have answers now. I'm li I'm the superintendent from here and I lack I as I said before I
027have two young children and I happily overpay for my house to send them to your school district >> our school district I will respond I will respond to you >> answer the question >> he's answering >> just remember you will all get voted out >> I'm going to respond >> do your jobs >> I'm going to respond at the beginning of I too moved to this district and I live here and my kids went to school here. So I understand how you feel. I as a superintendent do not have the authority >> to remove anybody. >> Make an exception. >> No, no, I want to hear. Please, please. >> I just I want to make sure everybody understands. >> I want I want to hear >> especially since you just moved here. I do not
028as a superintendent have the authority to remove a school board member. I work for the school board. It's actually the other way around. I'm not sure if we're aware. the board tell us who has about the board general the board of education >> has the ability to take some steps in action and I think Mr. and other board members can speak to that. But just so you know, I do not have the ability to >> we would have to hold that to hold a special. >> So why aren't you doing it right now? >> I thank you for your answer. >> My opinion call for a hearing. [Applause] You can't have the hearing tonight. Answer my question. Okay. >> And I will call you. >> I will call you tomorrow. But I I just want
029you to know I don't have the authority or the ability to remove a board member. So why started proceeding? [Applause] John, this is not good. [Applause] Okay, next we have Eric. >> Yeah. Uh I have a little speech I wrote, but I know from last year we were aware that you can't just remove them because someone else who uh Mr. Savage aligns with also uh stepped to political violence and she decided to resign. So we've been through this already last year. Uh, dear members of the board, the first lines of the South Orangetown School District mission statement say that we aim to elevate, engage, and inspire. Please explain to me how mocking the public murder of a young father and husband align with that mission. How does making light of the death help our children
030achieve their full potential, another tenant of our mission? The district also states that our values that are foster and inclusive school district community based upon respect. Inclusive means all children and families, not just those that align with your political beliefs. >> For the second year in a row, we have a board member who has chosen to use social media to post unsolicited comments supporting political violence. This is reckless, lacking, lacking temperance and frankly distraction from what members of our school board should be doing, focusing their time on, >> which is our children and their education. Mr. savage. You said no human should be murdered and then followed that with a butt and then mocked the young father's death. This rhetoric serves nothing more than to be exclusive and divisive. Mr. However, you are now an
031elected official in a school district with many diverse views. Again, I say, how is your commentary inclusive? How is it advancing our values and mission? How is it elevating anything other than your own personal black woman. You're supposed to represent all of our children in this district district. You have failed in that role. How can we trust you when you have proven you both lack value for human life, but you also do not have any regard for those that disagree with your beliefs? We all know that this district is both diverse and divided the last few years. But rather than be a leader and show compassion to all sides, you chose to go low. Your words, but more importantly, your sentiment was disgusting. You have shown you have shown that you are not for that
032you are not fit for this role. And so I ask that you do the right thing for our town and our children and resign from the board immediately. Last but not least, I pray that God touches your heart and opens your eyes to the fact that all life is valuable and that we have a choice of how to use our words and that choice would be to elevate and not to diminish. Thank you for your time. Okay, I have a Daniel Varian [Applause] everyone. First and foremost, >> first and foremost, let's stop the charade about free speech. Free speech protects you from persecution and prosecution by the government, not from consequences. Now, you're supposed to be in charge of our curriculum, and you don't know that. That's a little disturbing. Now, is this the lesson
033that we want to teach our children? Actions have no consequences. You can say and do whatever you want with nothing that will follow because I certainly don't teach my child that. I don't think anyone else here does. So why do you believe? How can us as parents have faith in this school board when they don't practice what they preach? Throughout the country, people who speared hate in the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination are losing their jobs because the country is sick of your hateful rhetoric. Got it. >> Yet you believe you're exempt from that. Why do you deem yourself special? >> Let's call this what this really is. >> Jay Savage is a mere mockery of this school boy as well as this community in attempt to paint himself as some sort of martyr to
034his followers who believe in hate speech as long as it's aligned with their political agendulated by the media who doesn't even know it. >> There's no place for that here. rather than working on enriching our curriculum which clearly it needs. Time is being spent on this matter because he prioritizes himself over the community. What morality is there to a person who will verbally attack a man who is just assassin? Regardless of whether you agree with his politics, Charlie Kirk is a father, a husband, and a human being. To attack a dead man is low by any standards other than that by a weak-minded cow. trying to hide behind a keyboard. That's what this is about. Cowardice to attack a man who has no ability to defend himself. Is this the example we want to teach
035our children? Attack people who cannot protect themselves. Where does it stop? We as a community are supposed to be okay with a coward with no morality to make decisions regarding our children's curriculum. But I ask everyone here, if the roles were reversed, if it was a member of the LGBT community that Jay so vehemently supports on his Facebook page that was murdered and a member of this board verbally attacked him, would he be as tolerant as he expects us to be? [Applause] >> There's only one set of standards, and that's human decency, which he has shown he has none. He is here for his own personal and political agenda, and nothing more. Now to the board and superintendent, excluding Katie Grevito who excuse herself. Your refusal to once again condemn hate speech will not be
036tolerated or forgotten. This is now the second time that the board and superintendent not only would not openly condemn it but refuse to begin proceedings for removal of such members. That in itself is a dereliction of duties which according to New York State School Board Association is grounds for dismissal of board members and you as well superintendent and entertain this charade then this community will call for the removal of each and every one of you that refuses to condemn. Should we not get you removed through official channels, I assure you that this will be remembered come re-election. This is no longer a left or right issue. It's a good verse evil issue. And standing around doing nothing makes you complicit with evil. [Applause] It's It's a little difficult to read the last name. It's a
037Giani starts with an H. >> I just can't read it. I don't even want to try. >> Giani. Sorry. Giani. And the last name begins with an H. >> You left. >> Okay. >> One last one last time. Giani. H O L. And I really can't read the rest. Okay, moving on to the next person. >> Lauren Seang. [Applause] >> All right. Well, a lot of this is going to sound repetitive, but here we go. Um, good evening members of the board, faculty, Mr. a lot and the community. I want to begin by saying that I deeply respect the time, commitment, and effort each of you dedicate to serving our schools and children. Public service is not easy and I recognize the sacrifices that come with it. That said, we must address a matter of
038serious concern. As we know, a member of our board, Jay Savage, made a comment on social media referring to Charlie Kirk as a Nazi with a YouTube channel. While this was posted on a private account, the reality is that members of this board are always viewed as representatives of our school district. Our community looks to this board for leadership, fairness, and an example of how to engage in respectful dialogue, even when we strongly disagree. Comparing someone to a Nazi is inflammatory language, and it does not reflect the type of behavior and mindset that should be associated with children, education, or public service. [Applause] This issue is not about politics or about whether one agrees or disagrees with Charlie Kirk. It's about a standard of professionalism and judgment we expect from our leaders. When remarks like
039this surface, they undermine public trust, distract from the important work of this board, and send a wrong message about what is acceptable conduct. And tonight is a clear example of that distraction. The fact that this many people showed up to address this situation in itself is a reflection of how this controversy is pulling needed attention and energy away from what is important and that is our children. Every moment spent managing the fallout from this controversy is a moment not spent advancing the academic, emotional, and social social success of the students that we are all here to serve. For these reasons, I believe that it's in the best interest of our district, our kids, and the board that you resign from your community. Doing so will help restore confidence, reinforce the values that we want to
040model for our children, and allow this board to move forwards forward focused entirely on the well-being and education of our students. Thank you. Thank you. Next we have Aaron Fish Cap. Fish fish cow fish. [Applause] had uh two speeches prepared and as soon as I saw you smiling and laughing your life through the mouth at the end of at the end of this comment I'm going to shake your hand and let you know that I forgive you. The problem is you yourself know you did something that you won't even apologize for. You won't look to this audience. You won't say sorry. You know what you did this wrong. You won't walk past your statements. You're going to sit there and you're going to stare at me because you're smart and you don't at the end
041of this again. I'm going to shake your hand because I forgive you. But as soon as you bring in our children in the conversation as fascists, as Nazis, I will be the first one to step in. So, I'm going to shake your hand now along with the rest of the board. I forgive you. I hope at the end of this you actually hear the community and you resolve. Thank you. Well, people are talking. >> Not right now, but >> forgiveness requires contrition. Sorry. Guys know we let him out of school. Okay. The last name, I'm not sure, but it's a Michael Cassie. No. [Applause] >> Um, first of all, I would like to echo um the comments made by the woman previously and thank uh at least most of you for your dedicated service to
042the children of our community. At least most of them. My wife and I have been members of this community for over 30 years. Our three children attended all levels of South Arstown School District. They went on to graduate from college and become productive members of our society. My grandchildren now attend South Armstown School District. My family and I have no regrets even now of moving here from Brooklyn. In fact, it's one of the best decisions we ever made. And part of that decision, a big part of that decision was because of the fabulous school district. I think we can all agree that our country has never been so politically and morally divided. I also thought we would also agree that an unprovoked murder of one of our fellow Americans was terribly tragic and completely unacceptable.
043Well, I was wrong. Since this terrible incident, I've seen various posts and videos defending these criminal actions. GoFundMes have also been generated supporting these criminal acts. Today I saw people outside the New York City courtroom demanding the immediate release of another coldblooded premeditated murder murderer Luigi Manion. >> We can all make excuses that these individuals glorifying murder are young and perhaps somewhat misguided. We can only hope that their morals and ideals will change. I certainly hope so. But today, we are here asking for the resignation of not a misguided young person, but a well-educated member of our school board who posted an an unnecessary message of hate. A member of the school board who makes decisions affecting the education, social, and moral development of our children. a member who trust who he trusted to show
044no bias in his decision-making. Well, Mr. Savage, you violated that trust and have proven you are not the morally sound and unbiased individual that was elected. Mr. Savage, you stated in your post, you started your post by saying, "No human should be murdered." That statement alone would have shown compassion and might might have helped begin the process of bringing this community together. Instead, you followed that statement by calling this victim of murder a Nazi. A term used much too often in our society and to me causes further division and violence in our country. >> For that, Mr. Savage, you must step down and you must step down and meet As a young boy, my mother taught me, "If you don't have anything nice to say, keep your mouth shut." Perhaps, Mr. Savage, you should have
045kept your mouth shut. Yeah. I mean, I'm really not understanding what is taking so long for the board to make this decision. There are people all over this country who made disparaging remarks regarding this terrible tragedy and have lost their jobs. I don't understand why it's taking so long for the board to vote unanimous unanimously to remove this individual. >> Although although as stated earlier he has the right to free speech but he does not have the right to sit on our board and spew those messages of hate. [Applause] Next we have Kristen Cardona. Mr. Savage, I am a parent with students in the district and I also work in the district. To me, this is very simple. No one is telling you what to believe or what to think. That is your personal choice
046and your right. However, if one of my children were to use hateful slurs or hateful political ideology on their personal social media accounts, they would face a consequence. >> The district would get involved, investigate, and move forward with a consequence. >> My child would not be given the opportunity to explain himself to his peers in a large auditorium. The adults in this district and the adults on this board need to be held to the same standards as the students are. You need to take accountability for your actions. Step down and be a role model to the children in this system. Next we have Paul Brower. [Applause] So here we are again. More political violence and more hateful rhetoric from a newly elected school board member. It is apparent that a member of the school board
047who is trusted to be an advocate for all the kids in the district would openly and publicly display such appalling and classless opinions on a social media platform. I'm a staunch defender of the first amendment and feel that board member J. Savage has the right to say anything he wants, even if it's disparaging to a recently assassined political figure. His right to say so is a cornerstone of the Constitution and something Charlie Kurt himself would have fought for Mr. Savage to be able to say. That being the case, I also would like to exercise my first amendment right and make a claim that Mr. Savage does not have the moral compass or proper judgment to be in the position to represent our children. I the school board president, the board itself, and the superintendent to
048demand his resignation. You have a duty to ensure the board members act in a manner that isn't detrimental to the district. His hateful words are divisive and impede the good order of the school board. Let me just expand on this for a minute. As my daughter gets older, I try to impart some life lessons on her. One that we we have recent recently been speaking about is how there are consequences to our actions. >> Sometimes good, sometimes bad. The consequences can be deliberate or unintentional. What matters is that consequences always follow our actions. The reason I bring this up is because this seemingly juvenile life lesson is one that has either never been taught to or has been forgotten by Mr. Savage. While his freedom of speech is protected against government action, there are limitations
049to that protection and it does not protect him from public backlash. Even worse than a Republican comment itself is Mr. Savage's failure to recognize the vitriolic nature of his words and the poor timing in the face of such a tragedy. I would like to give him a chance now to recognize the insensitivity of his comments and divisiveness that that they have caused. For that, I ask any resign or be removed for the betterment of the district. Shall none of that happen, you can guarantee that I will be running for your seat in the next election. [Applause] Next we have Deborah trainer. Dr. Koulad and the boys. >> Go forward. >> Hi, >> my name is Deborah Trainer. My husband and I both graduated from South Orange Tech in 1986 and 1987. We had married and
050decided that we wanted to continue to raise our children in this district for many reasons. We have three children. Two are twins. Both have graduated. One graduated from Tapenzy. One did not. And I have one that graduated last year. Decided not to go through Tapen High School because of after co how things were turning. He came home to us and said, "I can no longer do this anymore. I can't go into a bathroom and see girls. I can't see people in pet uniforms and being told I have to accept it. I can't do this anymore. Mr. Savage, you are responsible to do something for children and what you have said is teaching children that hate is okay. It is not okay. I work in a school district myself. I'm an occupational therapist where I work
051with children. I see many different children in many different ways, socially, economically, and color-wise. And I never treat any of those children differently. I love them and give them everything they need to be able to become the child they need to be. And you have a responsibility to say, "I've done the wrong thing. I realize that, and my consequences is to walk away." But you is there a con code of conduct that the board has to sign to be on the board? >> Yes or no? >> No. >> The kids have to sign one in school. >> The children do sign here to a code of conduct. >> Why isn't there a code of conduct? There should be >> we have a code of ethics. >> You have the last year. >> Excuse one moment
052please. I'm just as you >> what is that code? >> So the board has board policies. There's a code of ethics and we can speak to that. So in my view right now, his code of ethics has been >> violated in the highest form and he knew that when he got sworn in. You have a right to show the children what right and wrong is. And you're not doing that today. When I work with preschoolers, I show them right and wrong. I get on their level and I say to them, "Do you think that was right?" And then they look at me and I say, "Do you think what you did was nice? How do you think you made that person feel?" I asked them those questions. When you look in the mirror, do you
053ask yourself those questions? >> How did I make this district feel by my statements when I have to as a board member conduct myself in a professional manner? I think you should be resigning. Thank you. I also forgot to tell you that I was the president of the CPA, PTA, okay, that came here for the children with disabilities that have early intervention and we fought for them. So, I'm fighting for children again today. I wouldn't want >> I don't know if it's set a tunnel. All right. Everyone has a right to their beliefs, although I would hope that those beliefs are based on fact. Mr. Savage, you are perfectly within your rights to disagree with flying the flag of half mass. As much as others may have feel it, I'm sorry. As much as others
054feel in it appropriate and pathetic that it should be done so, especially taking into consideration that 911 was an attack by those who disagreed with our way of life and our ideology. As Charlie Kirk's assassination was also inspired by the same type of hate, a hate that has infected many who believe our political party and the news outlets which broadcast and amplify one point of view and offer little or no counterpoint while demonizing and dehum dehum dehumanizing the other which tragically has brought us to where we are. I feel your post given your position on the board across the point of no return when you call Charlie Kirk a Nazi. I don't see how you can justify or walk that back. Maybe you don't feel that there's a reason to which is even more problematic.
055Um you see Charlie Kirk was about inviting people to share and debate those who agree but especially those who don't agree and others and he engaged in discussion and debate his platform was prove me wrong it's not a Nazi philosophy for your information your labeling him as a Nazi shows a lack of humility understanding and stability our schools and their curriculum should be centered around excellence in learning and a safe place for all points of view. It should not be a breeding ground for activists, protesters or agitators. I have concerns if your position of influence over the minds of our children who are detrimental and provide an environment that we're in. I'm sure some on the board may agree with you. Maybe they're your friends. Maybe they don't want to hurt you. But this is
056not about individuals or board members individually. This is about our children and our future generation. If you care about those minds, you should show the next generation that when you make a mistake of the magnitude as yours, that you need to own up and take responsibility. You should step down from your position and step away from young impressionable minds and let cooler prevail. I hope someday you will realize if you haven't done so already. Conservatives have a say the right feels that people on the left are good people with bad ideas, but the people on the left feel that we're bad people. Charlie Kirk's death was proof of that. And your vile comments proves that even further. Please apologize to the community of Durham, to Charlie Kirk, his family, and his followers who by association
057you have depicted also as Nazis. [Applause] Our children deserve better, calmer, and more educated leadership. Thank you. [Applause] Eugene Buffy. Okay, one last time. Jean >> Buckley. >> Okay, I will uh I will repeat the name to that person at the end. We'll go to Margaret Long. [Applause] >> Sorry about that. Sit down, man. Hello everybody. I came here tonight not quite sure what to expect because I've never felt compelled to attend one of these meetings before now. I felt the last few years since moving here that a balanced and respectful school board was operating with our children's best interests in mind. All our children best interests. And today I don't feel that way. Today I feel that there's a man on the school board, a man on the curriculum committee who has substantial input
058on materials taught to my young children, who has demonstrated his own inability to remain impartial and focused on the common ground that this community has. A man who is spreading divisive, historically inaccurate, and inflammatory opinions about a young father who was savagely murdered in front of his the whole world to see. My wife and I have become friends with a lot of parents in this community in the last three and a half years we've been here. I couldn't tell you who any of them voted for to be president. I have no clue. I don't care. It doesn't matter to our kids. And we've all had the same mentality of raising respectful, compassionate children, no matter who you come for. to have a person on the school board who attacks the beliefs of Charlie Kirk with
059such anger and vitriol while so many of this community share those beliefs with Charlie is irresponsible at best. And if you ask me, it's downright disgusting. The Nazis are responsible for the most horrific acts of hate and murder in human history. and using that term to describe a man whose platform was based on promoting a nuclear family, a faith in a higher power, accountability for self and community, living a cleaner and healthier lifestyle with your body and mind, all while challenging the world around you to see active discussions and debates happen in public forums. This is the man that you determine as a Nazi. I'm raising my kids. I'm sorry. This is all also a supporter of musical, which is the irony. That's you're calling this man a Nazi. >> Am I a Nazi? >>
060Do you see me as a Nazi? I share a lot of those views that you seem to be so opposed to. Would you tell me in my face right now that I'm a Nazi? >> Are my children Nazis just I'm sorry you actually said that you will respond. So my question is, am I a Nazi for sharing in those views? >> So >> yes or no? >> Am I a Nazi? >> I do not believe you. >> That's a great answer. That's not that's [Applause] [Music] [Applause] the people in the world. I told my children that everybody in the room shares their views at their favorite role and that's what Charlie was pushing and that's the man that you determined is a Nazi and it's unacceptable. >> I don't know you that much. >> My
061son entered middle school this year in his building and he came home to tell me about the four Bs of the South Orangetown Middle School. Be respectful, be prepared, be responsible, be kind. And those are the four Ps that this board wants our children to memorize. Have you memorized them, Mr. Cers? [Applause] >> Thanks very much. He stumbled for about 40 seconds on my catch up. You already know one thing, Mr. Savage. You do have your first amendment right to the freedom of speech. The same right that caused Charlie Kirk his life. >> But while that is a right, serving on this school board is a privilege and you had to make a choice. And you made one and I'm proud of you for that. But these are the consequences of that choice. And we
062will not tolerate you continuing to serve on this board another day. And we will be here at every meeting. And this same crowd will be here demanding your resignation until it's temped. We'll see you soon. [Applause] Next we have long [Applause] >> I don't know you have a great answer. [Applause] How about the 5 presentation prep performance prepar [Applause] members superintendent it's kind of hard to follow that but I'm not going to get very political I'm going to speak for the children I am a mother of four young kids in the school district and uh Mr. Savage, as a community leader, an example of our children, excuse me, for our children, your lack of empathy is appalling. When you didn't show sympathy for a father who was murdered and left two children behind, it really
063shook me. In our community, where children without parents struggle every day, I expected empathy. The way you responded made me and many others realize there was no place for you on this school board. You are unprofessional and do not deserve this role. You must resign. >> Next week looks like Charles Toronto. >> Charlie. >> Wish we had Charles. Once again, I believe it's a Charles Toronto T R A N T O. Okay, I'll try that at the end again. One more time. I have a fall Valentine. Good evening and thank you Paul the board members and and Dr. Koulot for for hearing us out and giving us our first amendment rights. Um I am uh here as a resident as a grandfather and a father. My three children went through south of lunchtown um all
064the way through the entire school district and are very productive members of our community now. And I have eight grandchildren in this district going to this school all who live in Bla. I have deep concerns that Mr. Savage doesn't know what a Nazi is. that maybe he didn't take history because the atrocities that were committed by Nazis >> were unfathomable. I mean they killed people because of their belief in a religion. Charlie Kirk on the other hand was trying to promote free speech and trying to have an open dialogue. Now why he didn't maybe not agree with his views how you can relate one to the other I can't even imagine and like the other speaker said your lack of empathy for a father you're a father I'm a father how horrible was that murder
065I mean I don't know how you couldn't be moved if it was someone on the other side of the aisle I got to tell you I would cry the same the way I did when Charlie Kirk was killed. >> We we we all have to be examples of tolerance. What you showed was incompetence. >> And I'm sorry, but you have to resign. There are consequences. If a child came in here and drew a Nazi symbol or a SWAT sticker on a lock, what would happen to Hannah? That's what should happen to you. Next we have Mara. >> Clown clown. It's a smile wide. >> So, before you start the timer, could you go over the guidelines for public comment? I believe it is to allow the viewers perspectives >> and to to listen to every
066to what people are saying up here. >> Yeah. >> So, I would really ask the crowd to do that. [Applause] Let me help you out. >> Can you please start? >> Okay. So, my name is my name is Mara Laz. I'm a community member and a parent to two girls in this high school. >> So, um to me the most the two most important questions to consider tonight are do we want to contribute to the divide that is crushing our nation? We did. >> No, we don't. >> Or are we willing, each of us, myself included, all of us here, to contribute to to do the hard work to heal this divide. [Applause] >> Let me let me speak. So, there's a lot of topic. There's been a lot of talk about tonight about consequences,
067which I agree with, but there's a difference between consequences and accountability. And I really want to talk about >> accounting. [Applause] >> Okay. And and also, there's been a lot of talk about modeling for our children. And I agree that this is this is a this is you know why we're all here to >> Is this what we want to do? [Applause] >> Is this is this the kind of >> comments to the board not us >> comments are to the board. Is this the kind of conduct >> you think we're not? >> You're a Nazi. [Applause] board policy 1230 director. We have lost sight of what we share as a community and as a nation. >> Even in the aftermath of this tragedy of the most recent assassination, we share more than divides us.
068>> Lizard people, >> we share hurt. We share fear. We share anger. But the first piece of good news is that we have a choice. We can direct this fear and hurt at each other and see each other as our enemy. But we don't have to follow the headlines and we don't have to adapt to what everyone else in the nation has done. We can choose >> a different path. >> What do you think? >> The second piece of news. The second piece of good news is that we don't have to do this alone. There are organizations such as the constructive dialogue institute that helps divide a communities such as [Applause] How do you think you're better than me? >> This is the final point. >> The third piece of good news that this work
069is already being done in our district and starts with the smallest steps. >> A few years ago, I went to a PTA meeting in this building in the library. There there about 20 people there, probably some of you as well. >> Time's up. begin the meeting by turning to the person next to us and introducing [Applause] >> the rules [Applause] at the >> nut. [Applause] reason [Applause] >> by not teaching them how to resolve conflict and not investigating one. [Applause] [Music] Fantastic. [Applause] >> Okay, all your friends going. I just want to say something. I want to hear everyone. That's what we're here for. I understand people disagree and I understand the emotions and I just ask you that we're modeling what we want to represent for our kids. >> And when it becomes a
070mob, I don't think that's what anyone wants. We're here to get our point across, have the board listen, and if the board needs to to make it further action. Okay? >> You should be listening. We're all talking. You should be listening. So, thanks for listening to the rest of the people that have signed up for public commentary. And one thing I know is for certain that this board will make time to speak to anyone that wants to speak further in some way. I am always available. So, if you need to speak to me further, I will make time. Please, >> I'm sorry, but the last speaker was just so terrible. [Applause] >> She said his wife [Applause] The only way [Applause] everybody [Applause] I have >> um so the community call for today's resume are
071part of democracy. They're entitled to express their disappointment. But I want to tell you about how this community crossed the line. And I want to public of the nightmare that we've experienced over the past years of a post calling for a protest at our home. Yeah. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] Our neighborhood is still with children. children. [Music] >> They should have that day. [Applause] white [Applause] as a Saturday night. [Applause] You roll the goddamn tree. [Applause] All right, listen everyone. [Applause] enough. >> Leave him if he doesn't leave. >> Okay. So, the next >> what what we're left with is that if you can't be the example for your children like I asked. >> Please not be an example for any of our children. What happened? >> Mr. Orlando just resigned. >> Hey, my kid would
072have loved this. >> What I'm going to say is we're going to have to finish. [Applause] We can't listen to public commentary. We can't have the meeting. We want to finish the meeting. We understand everyone's emotions. We really do. We share your emotions. Believe me. >> So, why don't you tell us to get the public commentary? If we can't do that, then public commentary. She's telling us how she feels. Has nothing to do with it. We don't care how she feels. >> Please. >> How this all start again? >> Um, you did. >> You can imagine. Oh, yeah. She picked up the phone and she saw the screenshot of her protest in her house. >> You can imagine what the weekend was like. [Applause] How about that one? [Applause] >> How about the video? >>
073What about my kid? >> Nothing happened. My celebration. [Applause] Almighty [Applause] He did mother. [Applause] Can you say sorry [Applause] during that? It's ridiculous. >> Stand up and resign. [Applause] What's he saying to her? >> They're not really >> You guys just let her go for 10 minutes. That's not fair. It's not Why to everyone? >> I was trying to give her time and she was interrupted for most the whole thing. I apologize if you don't think it was fair. I'm doing my best and I would like everyone else to get a chance to speak, but what I'm saying is it's not really public commentary if we cannot hear them. I understand your frustration, but I don't think we can continue unless we're we're letting people speak. So, I I don't know if you guys
074can let them speak or if we need to >> just vote. [Applause] Hold on. Let him talk. What's the process? that did you think of your board member when you told her that about a father being murdered just blocked her husband? Did you think about meeting your colleague that sits right there next to you? Did you think about anybody who doesn't care? [Applause] I think about Katie and her family. >> You absolutely did not shut your mouth. Another lie. You're a liar. You're an absolute liar. That went through hell and you did this. How dare you? >> You are walking. >> Can we You don't belong here. All right. >> Can you guys explain the process of removing him from [Applause] >> just [Music] so we're all fairly new members on this board? Okay. >>
075So, you're not I've been on the board for two years. This is my fourth year. So, yes, this is my first >> So, you're not new. What's the problem? So what I'm trying to tell you is because I don't know these situations like an experienced board member would I speak constantly with our lawyer >> speak I I I speak constantly with a lawyer and get guidance like I think any board member should. So we are absolutely listening to your concerns and following the procedure that the lawyer is setting forth that we have to hear. >> But that doesn't answer the question. It's my understanding that if the board votes unanimously cannot do anything. >> Is that true? >> You cannot do that this evening. You have to have a special. [Applause] >> So for us
076to remove from the Let me see. For us to remove him from the board, we have 10 days to file charges. From there, we we're >> trying to get this tonight. From there, if there's 10 days after the charges are filed that he has a chance to then bring in his own lawyer and his own team to debate those charges. >> Then we vote as the board to determine this next step. >> The public commentary was a necessary process. >> Respect to everybody here >> and everybody that's not here that couldn't come that's watching online. It's just the respect. >> Is there a timeline for his defense? His lawyer's defense or >> 10 days from the time he served with the charges from the time he's served with the charges. If I'm not mistaken, it's
07710 days from that time. >> He's got 10 days after the charges. >> No, it's 10 days from the time that you serve him with the charges. We deserve it. >> Diana [Music] [Applause] does from his position. Why this is being done? Because you know what? A kid in school would be suspended. A teacher would be suspended. >> Okay. So, we'll give this one more try and if we can't continue, we're going to have to make a different choice then. At least that's what I feel. Um, if you want public commentary, you have to sign up. We have to stop the back and forth. We did >> sign up. Give us answer. >> No, the list is not out there anymore. How do you sign up? [Applause] >> Tomorrow. Okay. I have a Preston Kavanagh.
078Thanks for your time. To start, I'd like to remind everyone in the room that South Orangetown School District is much, much larger than just this room. A small but loud segment of our community does not want more men for Savage to finish his term. And to effectuate that, they have distorted the content and context of a social language of outrage as a tool. The people who raise this issue do not care about it as much as they do how they can use it. My family's voted for Mr. Savage. We trust his judgment, qualifications the same way, which is why he won the election. >> I am an discussing whether our votes get thrown away. [Applause] outside of my house tonight. [Applause] >> I hate public speaking. Um, I'm here to speak on behalf of my
079children. So, I have two kids in the district. Two kids that I am teaching to be kind, be bold, be brave, be accepting of other people and their views, to stick up for themselves and others. But in the world we live in right now, that's a very scary thought. I tell them truth matters, courage matters, acceptance matters, even if they don't agree with that person. But what do we say when someone who lives those same values life is taken because of them? It's horrible. It's scary and the last person you expect to install more heat is a board member in your own book. There is a president board member I thought I was going to be like the first person on this speech. Um there's a president board member that decided to publicly comment on
080recent events. This member ran his campaign on treating everyone equal and caring for all children which has proved itself to be pretty laughable. He cares about his own agenda. He has divided the district for his own selfish reasons, throwing a temper tantrum on social media at the risk of our children. You are a board member and you are setting the worst example. Teaching our kids nothing of value. Speaking of teaching, I would love to know who taught this person what a Nazi is because clearly he has no idea. Him speaking out on 9/11 about never forgetting. You know what I will never forget was September 12th, 2001 when all Americans came together. That day will forever represent true compassion and neighborly love. This is the exact opposite of your disgusting Facebook post. >> Charlie Kirk
081died in front of his own child. Do you know what that must have felt like for that child? Do you know any child that has seen their parents die? Do you? You have no idea. And I hope you never do. If you think Posting that was a smart thing to do and you clearly lack the judgment necessary to make level-headed decisions pertaining to the education of my children. I will only accept you similar to their own. I will not tolerate this kind of behavior of a board member and I can promise you I will keep going and come back every board member meeting until you realize you are not suited for this position. For all the parents and community members in this room, again, I thought I was going to speak early. If you could
082just raise your hand if you agree with me and stand up. Raise your hand. [Applause] Next we have Emily High. [Applause] Get off your phone. >> Pay attention for you. >> Good evening and thank you for allowing us to address this sensitive issue tonight. >> My name is Emily Him. I'm a mother of three children in our district and this is also the district that I myself attended and I am sad to say here we are again. I stand here deeply concerned about the conduct of Mr. Savage. When a school leader publicly labels a very popular, well-known, and well-liked individual whom he knows many in his district had positive feeling towards as a Nazi. It does more than show poor judgment. It normalizes reckless speech and erodess trust in his court. Mr. Savages immediate reaction
083to a 31-year-old man with a wife and kids getting shot and killed was to complain that people are grieving and to call him a Nazi. In my opinion, this is the reaction of someone who lacks any empathy, lacks any good judgment, and lacks the knowledge to understand how absurd a comparison to a Nazi is, and is not fit for a position on this school board. It sto soaks the flames of division and uses the exact words that the people who commit these crimes use. It mocks at least half of his constituents. This isn't a political issue. This isn't a first amendment issue. Free speech protects citizens from censor censorship by our government. It does not mandate that US citizens tolerate vile speech that stos division, hatred, and provides a horrible example for our students. He
084of course has the right to post what he wants, but we also have the right to demand that someone with that judgment not make decisions concerning our children's education. When an elected school board member chooses to publicly post inflammatory rhetoric, calling a father and husband who was assassinated in front of his children and our nation a Nazi, it crosses the line to dangerous territory. Charlie Kirk was a major influence on younger generations, which includes many students in our very own district, your district, who are grieving and shook by this tragedy and who you just mocked. Your kind speech stains our border and places our entire community at risk of division and hostility. Mr. Savage, have you got the opinions of the other board members about your actions? The statement from the superintendent and president of
085the school board make it clear to all of us that your words were not authorized by them. They do not represent their values and they do not want to be tied to your mistake. >> Clearly, it seems you have zero support from those who sit beside you up here. So, it's no wonder you had neighboring school districts online coming out to support you. >> You have none. >> I have heardly call at other meetings our board members uneducated. that sit up here with you. However, Mr. Savage, these members seem to be educated enough to know how to not start a disunityity amongst the parents, community, and students they serve. Unlike you, you have not continued to reveal your true colors. Colors that do not align with any with our members of the board and many
086members of our community. How do you expect to conduct school board business after personally creating such a hostile environment within our board and our community? A board member is supposed to model integrity, respect, responsibility. Instead, your behavior brings embarrassment, liability, and distrust. >> For the sake of our students, our reputation, and our school district's future, we cannot afford leadership that poison us. This seat should be filled with someone who lifts our community up, not tears it down. Dr. Pulat does not have the authority to remove Mr. Savage. So, I am calling on Mr. status himself to listen to the people in your district who you work for and resign. This issue will continue to expose our district and your soulless post and will not go away until you are away from our children. We deserve
087better and I promise I will see you at every single meeting. room. >> I have a last name. Denise, I believe >> once again I have Denise Desarden. I have next Lette George. My apologies. We're going to go to Denise to Jordan. >> So, I too overpaid for my house. I am very new to um the district. Um I have to say I am so disheartened. I'm an educator for 31 years, principal for 18 in New York City. And I think that what I observed today was like everyone's talking about Charlie Charlie Kirk and how he was all about free speech and it's concerning because the folks that didn't agree with the majority of this room were booed or disrespected. I had the hand put up in my face by someone. Someone said deport him
088by ICE. Someone else said, "How about if he gets shot?" And the same exact thing that everyone is, and listen, I'm not going to say I agree because I disagree rather. I do agree. The term Nazi is harsh and it's hurtful. >> And [Applause] hateful. Yes. But so listen, [Applause] >> but if we're talking about being respectful and him being full of hatred, it doesn't help. [Music] They're manipulating [Applause] that the that the community members that are asking for a representative to be respectful is completely disrespecting the whole concept of the board of education of the school board meeting of being spoken with with the board and the superintendent. It's disgusting. It's disorder. Yeah, we all have to screaming and being disrespectful to community members because our kids all sit in the same schools and
089in the same classes, then I think that the expectations of the school board and the superintendent need to be raised as well. audience. [Applause] >> Sometimes my wife gets mad at me and she's wrong and then I yell at her and mad because I yelled, but not at the real problem. That's what that >> I have Corino. >> Christine Corino. >> Thank you. He's sitting up there smug, ignoring everything, and won't look at anybody. So, no. >> Way to go, John. >> Nice job. I remember during co people infected with the virus had the social and moral obligation to isolate in order to prevent infecting other people. Whatever is sickening our country today besides physical viruses is sick ideologies that lead us to form, humiliate and hate our brothers and sisters. There should be no
090place in our American society for such feelings. Viruses are not just harmful for our physical health, they also harm our hearts and our minds. The disease is much worse if it is allowed to poison the hearts and minds of our children. As such, those who do present these dangers need to be isolated from our kids. There should be no place in our schools for such individuals whether they are teachers, staff members, uh parents, community members, whatever. As such, Mr. savage. Please remove this virus. Do the right thing and get out. Next, I have a tuna iron side. >> He's an infection. school board who are serving as volunteers to help our community, to help our children. It is sad. It is very I feel sad at what this has evolved into instead of being a
091community that's working together. is really really that um the um the appropri myself or others in this room who haven't been given the opportunity to be encouraged is is wonderful to all of us. I do feel that the school board benefits by having people with different points of view. And uh I think that I also believe that Mr. Savage made a statement which was not heard by everyone in this room and instead people were accusing him of X, Y, and Z when they didn't really hear his statement. So that makes me sad as well. Set it up. >> How nice. How nice that this is my community. >> Yeah, it is. >> That was awesome. >> Have a great [Applause] nobody heard. I don't really think it's funny. >> Thank you for letting me speak
092tonight. I'm here for one word and that word is nonsense. I had an uncle who spent four years at the concentration camp. I learned all about what that meant and he has no idea what that means and he should not be on this school board and anybody that throws that word around lightly should not represent our kids or this community at all. That's all I have to say. And you should be disgusted for what you did. That's right. Barbara Schulen. Okay, once again >> Barbara Schulin one more time. >> Okay. Next I have >> Alfredo Cast members of the board. U this message is solely for person who's who we're talking about here tonight. If he wants to make stupid comments on social media and speak and stand across the dis run for Congress. This
093position is not for you. And if you're thinking once they serve you charges, you'll get a lawyer. Think again. We're going to make sure whichever firm represents you, they're going to be blacklisted. They will never help another organization again. They will never help someone else again because of what you did. And let this also be a warning to all other members, not just of this board, but of this school district. If they mention anything similar to your comments, they're on the lookout as well. Thank you. Good night. >> Next, I have a Matt Morley. Hi, my name is Jarley. All right. >> Um, uh, my speech won't be very fiery, uh, because, uh, it's about the bylaws. Uh, so anyone who's excited for the bylaws, uh, you can get pumped. On a personal note, you
094know, we moved here 5 years ago. Um, you know, like many for the beautiful community, for the school system, we've been so happy. We've been fortunate since we moved. Other people have moved out after us and we were so happy to welcome into uh to this community. Uh, and I was just um I was disturbed at the very beginning when uh gentleman said that his words had nothing to do with his job. Uh and I I his job description is in the bylaws. So here are a few uh schoolboard powers and duties. First section fundamental responsibilities to formulate in cooperation with superintendent schools goals consistent with the desires of the community and the needs of children and to provide leadership in the attainment of the educational goals. Your job is to provide leadership and you
095are failing to do that and you are not going to be trusted by a lot of people to do that. Next section general functions delegate the authority for the administration uh of the school system to the superintendent. Evaluate periodically the work of the superintendent. People are now supposed to trust you to evaluate our superintendent. if he leaves for bigger and better things to select help select the next superintendent and they have to trust your character to do that and I I don't think they do. Next section personnel functions appoints promotes retires and removes all personnel upon the recommendation of the superintendent. So we would trust you to do that with your judgment and your character to sit in judgment over all the personnel of the school. Many of whom we are divided in diverse community
096and many of whom have similar attitudes uh and beliefs of Charlie Kirk. Final section there's a whole section for public relation functions. This is your job description. Represents the school system and various community functions. Represents community attitudes and values in educational planning and policy development. There is your job description. Your words do have something to do with it. Your words are a window into your character. And the character some have said is smug. I disagree. I I think it is hateful. I encourage you to reflect on it. Reflect on what you're putting the community through. Your family is I'm very sad to see you being affected by this. I disagree with what someone said earlier. Um, aside from Smug, I disagree with um, somebody said it'll matter come election time, but it's not election time.
097I knew as soon as I saw the words, it would be every meeting. I know some people have organized and I support encourage them. They have every right to organize and they should. I'm not part of any organizing. It was obvious as soon as anyone saw the words that every schoolboard meeting from here out would be affected by this. It's not going to wait for election because before election also come budget votes. There are budget votes every year. And every budget is going to have your fingerprints on it. And now the board is depending to pass those budgets and those budgets are going to pass or fail with your with your participation. So I encourage you to reflect on all of that. Thank you. And I have a Dave I believe Dava Bailey. >> I'll
098I'll give her some chance at the end. Uh going with Jessica Smith. Good evening. >> Way to talk. >> So I would encourage uh members of this community to show the same respect to all members of the community when those members are speaking. Um, if that if a value that we're trying to model for our children is respect, then I would ask for your respect at this time. >> Um, I would like Thank you. I would like to express my alarm at the campaign of intimidation that has been mounted against this board member. >> Dr. Okay. >> Okay. Would you like to model respect >> at this time? >> Okay. Then I would encourage the board >> to remove any unruly members. [Applause] >> Please make a stand. to their friends. >> Okay. Well, then
099don't don't address the board just for removing people from the audience because that's just making it a hostile situation. We don't need that. If you want to address you want to address the board, please address the board. Please don't ask the board to take any action against the audience. That's not appropriate. >> Okay. [Applause] People would be asked to behave. >> You got to say Okay. I believe that this power of censorship and intimidation against elected servants uh is very concerning, especially given that it is part of a nationwide effort to use the death of Charlie Park to crack down on political disscent and expression. Uh, the board member posted his comments, however unwise they may have been, in a private form. >> It's called social media on social. >> Would you like >> to
100expect my speech as I did before? >> Well, you're taking forever, >> guys. Come on. speak as you keep interrupting. Regardless of one's agreement or disagreement with Kirk's espoused views, which I would argue that are at odds with the stated values of our school district >> of inclusion of all people, >> Nazis, >> what is not in question, and I I wasn't going to bring up her, but since everyone else is talking about him, >> it's the whole point we were here. >> Okay, let's let's continue then. What is not in question is Kirk's well doumented campaign to harass [Applause] [Music] to my friend because this >> guys come on. She's clearly pregnant. >> She's clearly pregnant. Let her be. >> Are you 37 people? >> 37. >> Mr. Kirk had a well documented pattern
101of harassing. [Applause] down. [Applause] Time's up. Sit down. Listen people say go quiet for one sentence please. >> Through his wellfunded organization Turning Point USA Kirk led a campaign to target educators. [Applause] Another [Applause] 10 minutes you can schedule school [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] No, you're done. >> Get out. >> Nice. >> Bye, >> John. They're all leaving you, man. They're all leaving. You might as well walk out, too. Go, man. >> Where the Mrs. Go, [Applause] man. >> Not getting either. >> Who else you got to talk? Let him keep talking. [Applause] As you know, they all over this place when I was here. Um, I want you all to bear with me because this is important. I do a lot of work in Washington DC and I've taken an interest in cyber security.
102I remember distinctly a talk about Russia and China and cyber warfare and China had its own little agenda but Russia's agenda was to take conservatives and make them more re reactionary and to take liberals and make them more reactionary. not to favor either side, but to get to America to fight against itself. It is totally heartbreaking to me that this is not the first time I've had to come to this board because curricular or uh speech by staff members or people associated with the district have added to that type of divisiveness. That's not what our children should be learning. And it it's it's not good for our kids. It's not good for the community. And I don't know if you guys how much you're aware of this. It is very bad for the country right
103now. So please, I beg everybody um everybody do what's right. Let's go. My name is Rich Teler. Um been in the school district for more than 20 years. Have three girls. Uh including our youngest just graduated last year. Um to be honest. Uh before a week ago, I barely had heard of I really was just not that wasn't on on my radar. But to see somebody struck down in the prime of life and to have that tragedy or reduced to one of the two nwords that should never really be used is ridiculous. And I don't see how the board can accept that kind of response. It's just not right. [Applause] Like I said, we want to make sure everyone has the opportunity. There were a few that we passed over and I just want to
104go over those names again just to make sure if they're back. Uh the Dava Bailey, um Giana and started with an H homestead. I'm not sure. And then I had a Charles Franto and yes. All right. Um, >> did anyone else sign off that didn't speak? >> Yeah. Was it Lette George? >> No. Okay. >> Okay. So, it looks like we got through public commentary. Um, >> I believe we should go to executive session. >> Is everyone else in agreement? >> Before we I'm going to ask for a motion to adjourn at this point. >> Just before before we >> I'd like to adjourn the meeting at this point. I'm sorry, but I don't think operations can function. I apologize to anybody else's set on the agenda. I'm going to remove myself from the room
105at this point. >> I don't want to. I'm sorry, but I can't I can't sit here and take this anymore. I mean, >> Diana, way to be a leader. >> As I say, >> way to be a leader. >> You know what? >> My father didn't die tragically, but I watched him take his last breath as a child. It's impactful. So take that. >> They're gross, John. [Applause] I want to thank everyone for coming out tonight. The board will continue um its work. >> I also want to just say thank you to everybody for coming. You have my number, call me. I'm here to meet with anybody, talk to anybody. I will be reaching out to a bunch of you who spoke tonight. >> John, this was fun. Have a good one, man. I'll see
106you later.