Summary
Research from Princeton University shows that threats against local school officials in the U.S. have increased significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic began. The study found a 170% rise in threats, particularly concerning issues like mask mandates and LGBTQ+ policies, affecting officials across the political spectrum.
Key Facts
- Threats against school officials in the U.S. have increased by 170% since the pandemic began.
- The research was conducted by Princeton University's Bridging Divides Initiative.
- Researchers interviewed 39 school board officials and surveyed over 820 school board members.
- Issues like mask mandates and diversity initiatives were common sources of conflict.
- The study covered threats documented from November 2022 through April 2023 compared to previous years.
- Sarah Leonardi, a Broward County school board member, received specific threats after a field trip story was publicized.
- The rise in threats is not limited to one political party; it affects officials across all political views.
- Increased hostility has been linked to pandemic-related disputes over individual freedoms and government directives.
