National School Boards Association Statement in Response to Justice Department Action to Address Threats Against School Personnel

This evening, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland directed the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to begin meeting with state and local law enforcement leaders over the next month to address threats against school board members, school and district leaders, teachers, and other school personnel. In response, Chip Slaven, NSBA interim Executive Director and CEO, issued the following statement:

“Over the last few weeks, school board members and other education leaders have received death threats and have been subjected to threats and harassment, both online and in person.

“The individuals who are intent on causing chaos and disrupting our schools—many of whom are not even connected to local schools—are drowning out the voices of parents who must be heard when it comes to decisions about their children’s education, health, and safety. These acts of intimidation are also affecting educational services and school board governance. Some have even led to school lockdowns.

“The U.S. Department of Justice’s swift action in response to NSBA’s request is a strong message to individuals with violent intent who are focused on causing chaos, disrupting our public schools, and driving wedges between school boards and the parents, students, and communities they serve. We need to get back to the work of meeting all students’ needs and making sure that each student is prepared for a successful future. That’s what school board members and parents care about.”