Controversy surrounds suburban school's art teacher hire
UPDATE: Lockport art teacher whose social media posts caused stir among parents fired by school board
LOCKPORT, Ill. — There is some controversy brewing in the suburbs over the new hire of an art teacher within the Homer Community Consolidated District 33C.
Parents are upset by the hire of an art teacher who they say has posted some questionable things on social media, and they are telling FOX 32 they don't understand how this person was hired.
"I've seen some anti-religious, child sacrifice, there was Satan worship," said one parent after seeing the posts in question.
"If he has his lifestyle, so be it, but that is not going to be put onto our children," said Julie McDaniel, a district parent.
At least one principal told parents that art class was canceled for Thursday's first day back, and the district is investigating the situation.
"They have to investigate it. I’m not saying don’t investigate it and just say this is what’s going on, but I think the school should’ve done a better job in checking these things," said parent Jessica Rajchel.
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One anonymous parent described to FOX 32 the social media posts that may be connected to the new hire.
"Concerning posts and pictures that were posted and not something that I would want to expose my children to at a young age," they said. "I wouldn’t say they were all depicting violence, but they were referencing violence."
School District Superintendent Dr. Craig Schoppe released the following statement:
"Dear 33C Community,
As you may have heard or seen online, there has been some question and concern with regards to 33C hiring protocol and details surrounding the conditions of hire for new employees. While the district cannot speak on matters of personnel for individual employees, I do want parents to know that I have heard your concerns, understand the issues highlighted by the community, and am investigating the situation. Our utmost concern is for the continued safety and wellbeing of our students and staff and will continue to ensure that all employees are held to the same high standard of professionalism that Homer 33C has come to be known for."
Parents are expected to show up at a board meeting to voice their concerns next Tuesday at 7 p.m.