NEW UPDATE - RE: Lakeland School District

Sent to the Lakeland Joint School District No. 272 by a parent.

"Dear Lakeland School District Administration and Board Members,

I am writing to you not only as a long-standing member of this community and a high-level business owner but also as a deeply invested parent. I currently have a child enrolled at Lakeland High School, and my eldest son is a former valedictorian of the same school. Our family has long supported the academic and moral standards of the district — but recent events have shaken that trust.

It has come to the attention of myself and many other parents that a math teacher at Lakeland High School, publicly expressed support or celebration of Charlie Kirk’s death, which we understand to be false at this time. Whether based on misinformation or not, the core issue is the inappropriate and violent sentiment being openly endorsed by someone tasked with educating our children.

This conduct is entirely unacceptable in any school setting, but particularly in a conservative, faith-based community like ours, where we prioritize decency, personal responsibility, and nonviolence. There is no place in our classrooms for teachers who publicly celebrate harm or death — real or perceived — toward others, especially political figures or individuals who represent the values of many in this district.

We are requesting the immediate dismissal of the teacher from her position. Nothing short of this action will be acceptable to the majority of parents and taxpayers in this district. A significant portion of the community is already organizing events and discussions regarding this matter. Should the district fail to act swiftly and appropriately, I personally will ensure every future levy or funding request is met with strong, organized, and well-funded opposition.

Lakeland has earned its reputation as a strong, morally grounded school district. Please do not allow the actions of one teacher to damage the integrity and trust that has taken years to build.

We are watching closely and expect your leadership to reflect the values of the families you serve."