Oak Forest, IL. – (ECWd) –

Monday’s Agenda (May 17, 2016) for the Forest Ridge School District 142 Board Meeting includes a “Vote on Resolution of Censure”.

If this Censure is against newly elected Board Member Roxanna Agler, we believe it is wrong and is an attempt at infringing on her right to free speech – no matter how offensive it may be. She has the same rights as each and every other person, and each and every other School Board Member.

The College of DuPage Board of Trustees tried going the Censure route a couple of years ago, and that didn’t turn out very well for them – it turned out good for the “Clean Slate” and the public, but not for the then-current Board Members. Video of a verbal warning given to COD by a citizen (below).

In this video, he states that the word “Censure” is found nowhere in state statute, it is extralegal, unenforceable, only used to bully and silence, and that Censure is the refuse of scoundrels.

We echo his sentiments and suggest the current majority not happy with her comments (if the Censure is against her) find some alternate way to voice their displeasure. And, we need more to write about 🙂

Additionally, we believe that any Board Member voting in favor of the Censure is violating their Oath of Office (as found in their Board Policy), which states:

“I shall encourage and respect the free expression of opinion of my fellow Board members and others who seek a hearing before the Board, while respecting the privacy of students and employees;”

How can they take the Oath to “encourage and respect the free expression of opinion” then turn around and vote on censure due to the “free expression of opinion”?

Censure does not work, and the Illinois Legislature has never given authority of Censure to any public body.
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