A teacher from Cheshire, Connecticut, has stepped down from her position following the release of a controversial video where she criticized supporters of President Donald Trump. Annie Dunleavy, who worked as a special education teacher within the Cheshire Public Schools district, made headlines after the video she shared on social media gained significant traction.
The video, intended for a private Snapchat group, showcased Dunleavy expressing her intense dissatisfaction with the electoral outcome. She stated, "If people of color, poor people and gay people aren’t going to be safe in America then neither the (expletive) are you guys!" This fiery declaration was compounded by more aggressive remarks, including threats aimed at those whom she accused of supporting Trump.
“And just please, please don’t test your gangster on me because you will end on a stretcher, gone forever,” she warned, clearly indicating the level of her frustration. The video then escalated to her inviting those who supported Trump to either delete her off social media or face her directly, saying, “If you want to fight, text me, call me, whatever.”
Superintendent Jeffrey Solan issued a statement announcing Dunleavy's immediate resignation, stating her comments did not represent the values of the Cheshire school district. He had previously stated the school would temporarily remove her from her classroom as the administration began investigating her statements.
"The Cheshire Public Schools has a rich tradition of tremendous educators who welcome all students and families with respect and appreciation," Solan explained. He expressed concern over the negative impact of Dunleavy’s comments on the community, emphasizing the need for students and families to feel safe within the educational environment. He added, “The comments on the video did not reflect the position of our school system. They were hurtful, deeply concerning, and undermined the faith our community has placed in us.”
Once the video went viral, Cheshire school administrators were overwhelmed with inquiries and complaints, predominantly from individuals outside of the local area, reflecting the broad public interest and outrage surrounding the incident. Attendance at school board meetings increased as many community members demanded accountability and answers.
Lt. Jeffrey Sutherland from the Cheshire Police Department confirmed they were aware of the video, describing its content as violent and unacceptable. After investigating, including discussions with Dunleavy and consultation with the State's Attorney Office at Meriden Superior Court, law enforcement decided not to pursue criminal charges against her. This decision has raised eyebrows, as residents question the appropriateness of Dunleavy’s statements made on the public platform.
The entire affair has sparked conversations about the role of teachers and the influence of their political opinions on students. Concerns have been voiced about whether such political discussions could instill fear or bias within the student body. Critics have drawn attention to the responsibilities teachers carry—not just as educators, but also as public figures entrusted with the moral development of young minds.
Locals have expressed mixed reactions; some support her right to free speech and empathize with her outrage over the political climate, whereas others feel her statements crossed the line, undermining her capability to teach effectively. Dunleavy's video and the subsequent resignation have certainly amplified discussions about political bias, personal accountability, and boundaries within educational environments.
