Parents call for resignation of South Orangetown Central SD board member over social media post reaction

There is controversy in the South Orangetown Central School district around a Facebook post that school board member Dawn Kitz is seen reacting to with a laughing emoji.

Diane Caruso

Sep 20, 2024, 9:27 PM

Updated 13 days ago

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Parents are calling for resignation of a South Orangetown Central School District board member over her reaction to a social media post.
“Doesn’t anyone have any aim? If you’re going to do it, then do it already!” That's the screenshot of a Facebook post that South Orangetown Central School board member Dawn Kitz is seen reacting to with a laughing emoji.
"We are calling for her resignation. We want her to step down,” said Emily Heim and other parents in the district who reached out to News 12 and spoke out at last Tuesday’s school board meeting against the interaction to a violent post about the second assassination attempt of former President Trump. "She has shown she does not have the good judgement to be trusted to make decisions."
Stacy Weiss, who knows Kitz, called News 12 to defend Kitz’ character and encourage people to talk to her.
"I'm sorry if my emoji response to a Facebook post was misconstrued." Kitz at the meeting earlier this week said she laughed at the poster - not the post. "I found her post outrageous and absurd. Laughable. I do not and never have condoned violence in any situation."
The apology isn't sitting well with those in the community that News 12 heard from. Meanwhile, the Schools Superintendent Brian Culat stated Tuesday night that they are looking into an appropriate course of action.
"The board members action, does not represent the position of the board or our school district," said Superintendent Culat.
Kitz sent News 12 the following statement:
"Let me start by saying I am truly sorry. I understand the reasons for this anger. I realize I must uphold the high standard of professionalism expected of elected board members, including social media. While my reaction emoji was in response to the poster and not the post, I understand how it was perceived. Again, I am sorry.
As a lifelong educator, there are lessons here for everyone. I should set a better example for our students and community of how to navigate social media and voice concerns. Since this has occurred, I have received support from many community members, but I have also been inundated with vicious, hateful, and hurtful messages. This is a time to reflect and vow to do better.
To be clear, I never have and never will condone violence or hate of any kind, against any person or group.
I would like us all to be able to focus on the students in our district. I remain committed to serving all members of the school district and sharing my expertise."