Community members rallied to support Duval teacher Hope McMath’s reinstatement amid an investigation for controversial social media comments.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Prior to Tuesday night’s school board meeting, community members, along with Hope McMath, gathered to deliver speeches advocating for McMath’s reinstatement.
This conversation didn’t stop outside but continued inside DCPS headquarters, as board members heard from those on both sides of this issue.
“Our mission here is to rally in support of Hope McMath, although she represents just one of many educators who have been targeted,” Monique Sampson expressed during the demonstration.
Hope McMath, a teacher in Duval County, stood alongside supporters, urging for her return to the classroom at Douglas Anderson, amidst the chants from the gathered community members.
DCPS reports that McMath has been reassigned and is currently under investigation following remarks she made on social media regarding a city councilman and Charlie Kirk.
“We acknowledge the community’s right to express their concerns and aim to provide transparency throughout this procedure. The district bears the responsibility of ensuring adherence to school board policies and adhering to local, state, and federal laws,” stated DCPS Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier.
While McMath’s fate remains uncertain, that didn’t stop supporters from defending her inside Tuesday’s school board meeting.
“Though we may weary, persecuted by authority we will not be silent. Free to speak, free to speak,” said Mike Ludwig.
“I ask that McMath be reinstated and that she be allowed to say what she wants,” said another community member.
“Her free speech was threatened first and now her job, quite literally, is fighting for our community and children,” said Diamond Wallace.
McMath’s current and former students also gave their first-hand accounts of their experience with the educator.
“Her teaching instilled in me nothing but love and kindness, never bringing her political views into the classroom,” shared Deja Perez, a former student of McMath.
While others spoke out against the teachers’ actions and called for her to be permanently removed.
“Is a teacher excusing an assassination as karma fit to teach in our schools”, one community member asked the board.
“If a teacher is going to make very incendiary comments that are dangerous and students are infected by that, that’s something to consider,” said another concerned community member.
“Trust is a contract between the schools and the community and this teacher broke the contract and needs to be reprimanded,” said Kathleen Perrera.
“As with all investigations, DCPS is committed to a fair and thorough due process to protect the fairness and to comply with policy we can’t share specific details until the investigation is complete,” said Dr. Bernier.
During Tuesday’s school board meeting, many community members also called out some board members for wearing shirts that read “This is the turning point. “Turning Point USA is a non-profit organization founded by Charlie Kirk.
First Coast News first reached out to the district pertaining to the matter as was told, “Questions regarding School Board member attire are best directed to Board Chair Joyce. She can provide the appropriate response on behalf of the Board.”
First Coast News also reached out to Chair Joyce late Tuesday night and we’re waiting to receive a response.
