A Connecticut teacher found herself at the center of controversy after posting a threatening video on Snapchat, directed at supporters of former President Donald Trump. Annie Dunleavy, who taught special education at Chapman School, has since resigned following significant backlash from the community and media.
Shortly after the video went viral, which depicted her making violent threats against Trump voters, Dunleavy was placed on administrative leave as officials began investigating the matter. The video showcased her angrily stating, "If you wanna fight, text me. If you voted for Trump, please delete me, block me... or step to me, so I can handle you how I see fit." She went on to say, "Just because you won doesn’t mean we don’t know who the f--- you voted for. Don’t test your gangster on me because you will end up on a stretcher, gone forever. I’m so serious."
The school's superintendent, Dr. Jeff Solan, noted she expressed personal views and assured the community they were treating it as a personnel matter. He emphasized the need for her removal from the school to maintain normal operations for students and staff.
Local police also received reports of the video and initiated their own investigation. The Cheshire Police Department stated, "Upon becoming aware of the nature of the post, an investigation was initiated. This investigation is still on-going and there is no additional information available at this time."
Concerned community members and parents responded strongly to Dunleavy’s remarks. Resident Ian Anctil expressed, "You’re a teacher and educator educating our kids. You need to be cognitive of who’s going to hear what you say, even if it was not intended for the public. It doesn’t matter whether you agree politically or not; being responsible is key."
Dunleavy, visibly shaken by the events, maintained her intention was misunderstood. On Twitter, she reflected on her actions, stating it was her lifelong dream to teach, and she had always aimed to provide the best for children. "I really know what people see right now, I don’t look like the person I truly am, but I would do anything to help any child and family in need, and it's fulfilling for me," she said.
This incident raises broader questions about the role of educators as public figures and the repercussions of their private expressions of political beliefs, especially on social media. Community members wonder whether expressing personal views should result in disciplinary action, especially considering the volatile political climate today.
Since her resignation, conversations around professionalism and responsibility have intensified. Some believe Dunleavy's actions were unacceptable, pointing out the potential harm of such unchecked rhetoric, especially coming from someone tasked with educating young minds. Others argue she should have the freedom to express her opinions without risking her career.
School districts across the nation often grapple with delicate balance between freedom of speech and maintaining a safe, supportive environment for students. Dunleavy's case exemplifies the challenges faced by educators today, where the lines between personal belief and professional duty can blur under the scrutiny of social media.
Despite her tumultuous exit from Chapman School, Dunleavy's reflections on her career indicate she intends to remain passionate about education. Unfortunately for her, this incident has deeply intertwined her personal life with her professional identity, leaving her future uncertain.
