Jeff Monroe used public comment at the July 15 work session to oppose the district’s formal association with the Anti‑Defamation League and asked the board to ‘‘follow the NEA's lead’’ in severing ties.
“My problem with the policy is that it validates the legitimacy of the anti defamation league,” Monroe told trustees, citing a recent National Education Association action referenced in his remarks. He read from news coverage and argued the ADL had been ‘‘guilty of using antisemitism as a broad stroke defense against criticizing the government of Israel,’’ and concluded, “We wanna require that the board follows the NEA's lead by cutting all ties with the ADL. Thank you.”
Context and board response: The public comment related directly to Resolution 5.4 on the agenda, described as authorization to hire staff for a district No Place for Hate (NPFH) leadership team. Trustee McDonough acknowledged the concerns Monroe raised and suggested the board consider whether alternative anti‑bullying or bias‑prevention programs exist and to solicit input from the teachers’ union; he said both positions — concerns and program effectiveness — should be weighed.
Superintendent Dr. Doggett offered to research options and ‘‘look into it,’’ telling trustees she would review whether other programs are available or whether program adjustments are warranted. The board did not vote tonight on any change to existing partnerships; Resolution 5.4 was discussed and, along with other grant‑funded staffing items, moved to the consent agenda for a future vote.
Distinction of comment vs. board action: Monroe’s remarks were part of the public‑comment record; they did not by themselves change district policy or partnerships. Trustees emphasized the difference between comment and formal policy change, and Trustee McDonough asked staff to explore alternatives and consult union input.
Ending: The board will consider Resolution 5.4 as part of its consent agenda and asked administration to report back with options, potential alternative vendors or curricula, and union perspectives before any final commitment.