Facebook comments by Arcadia teacher cause controversy

Controversy is swirling in the Accomack County School System over comments on Facebook made by an Arcadia Middle School teacher on the assassination of podcaster Charlie Kirk in Utah Wednesday. 

Civics teacher Jessica Merando wrote:

“Good”

Then in a follow up post she wrote:

“For those who need me to clarify:

Yes, I’m referring to him.

Yes, I am celebrating.

Yes, I hope he rots.

No, I won’t apologize.”

In response, Accomack County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Gennifer Miller released the following statement:

“I am writing to let you know that Accomack County Public Schools is aware of a social media post made by a division staff member on a personal social media account outside of the school day, related to the violence that took place in Utah yesterday. We understand that the post has been circulating online and has upset some members of our community.

“Please know that we are addressing this situation in accordance with division policy and procedure. ACPS does not support or endorse the personal opinions expressed by individual staff members.

“More broadly, our students, staff, and families may be experiencing a range of emotions in the aftermath of the events that took place on Wednesday. Our school counselors are ready to support any student who may need assistance processing their feelings. Anyone who needs support is encouraged to visit with a counselor at any time.

“Now more than ever, it is important for us to demonstrate kindness and respect in our words and actions. Let’s continue to support one another during this difficult time.”

Parent Carolin Aigner wrote “As a parent, I question why our school system would keep a teacher who is celebrating gun violence that resulted in a murder on a school’s campus. It makes me question why our superintendent & school board, whose primary focus should be protecting our children is choosing to not take swift action against a teacher who supports an extremely heinous crime that took place at a school.”

By Thursday afternoon over 125 comments had been posted with the overwhelming majority calling for Merando’s dismissal.

When asked if any disciplinary action had been taken, Accomack County Public Schools Public Information Officer Danielle Clark said “At this time we are unable to provide additional information past our previous statement since this is a personnel matter.”