Royall Elementary Staff Controversy Sparks Heated Discussion in Florence, South Carolina
FLORENCE, S.C. — In a powerful display of support and solidarity, Royall Elementary School teacher Alissa Bennett received a standing ovation from her colleagues as she spoke up at a meeting of the Florence One Board of Trustees on Thursday night. The gathering, held at Sneed Middle School, was fueled by the recent turmoil surrounding staff terminations at Royall Elementary, which has left many in the community feeling unsettled.
On August 1, the school saw the termination of two employees and two administrators due to an incident that stemmed from a Facebook post featuring staff members wearing “Border Patrol” T-shirts during a back-to-school celebration, while other employees dressed to represent various countries for a themed event. This post was deemed “insensitive” and generated significant backlash.
Bennett passionately addressed the board, voicing concerns about the perceived inequality in the treatment of employees following the incident. While one of the terminated individuals, a male custodian, has since been reinstated thanks in part to support from a civil rights organization, the two female employees remain terminated, sparking feelings of unfair discrimination.
Voicing Concern for Fair Treatment
“The Royall team and Royall community are absolutely overjoyed that justice was served for this member of our school family,” Bennett noted as she recounted the custodian’s reinstatement, which occurred about a month after his dismissal. “However, I am here tonight because the district has not treated the other female employees equally.” She elaborated that the terminated female employees did not have similar backing and had to seek legal assistance on their own, incurring significant financial costs in the process.
Bennett highlighted the critical role played by one of the female employees, who served as a reading interventionist for young students. “She has helped bridge the gap for a numerous amount of students and struggling readers. The children ask for her daily, wanting to know where she is,” she stated, emphasizing the negative impact on students as well.
Appeals Denied, Questions Raised
As the board met to discuss the appeals of the terminated employees, Bennett pointed out the inequity in the decision-making process. “What reason does the district have for choosing to reinstate one male employee over the other female employees?” she questioned. “Their appeals have been denied, and they are now in a position where their future is being held to a vote by you.”
Bennett also referenced the disparities in each employee’s situation, calling for accountability. “By not treating all of these employees equally, the district is in direct violation of the South Carolina Human Affairs Law,” she argued, urging board members to ensure fairness in their decision-making. Despite the heated discussion, the board does not typically respond to public comments made during their meetings.
Board Decision and Community Reaction
Following an executive session where one of the terminated employees’ appeals was discussed, the board ultimately moved to deny the request to reinstate her. The decision, with only two members opposing and one abstaining, has left some community members feeling frustrated and unheard.
Board member Bryan Chapman expressed his disagreement, stating, “I’m not in agreement with the termination of any of the staff.” This sentiment resonated with many in attendance who have closely followed this evolving situation.
As the Florence community continues to navigate this challenging chapter, the sentiments expressed that night reflect a broader demand for justice, equality, and integrity in the way educators and staff are treated, pointing to the hope that many have for a more equitable future in local education.
