Since COVID, threats to local school officials have nearly tripled, research finds
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.
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