The Cheshire community is calling for action over a teacher’s controversial video

CHESHIRE, CT (WFSB) – Tensions ran high at a city council meeting Tuesday night as members of the Cheshire community called for more transparency and accountability following the release of a controversial video featuring a teacher that sparked widespread outrage.

The video, which went viral on social media, appears to show the teacher making politically charged comments aimed at supporters of President-elect Donald Trump.

The incident has sparked an investigation by Cheshire Police and residents are calling for immediate action, including the teacher’s dismissal.

“Our lives have been targeted by a person who cashes a paycheck from Cheshire town every week. Her name is Annie Dunleavy,” said Amy Bourdon, a mother of a special needs child from Cheshire who attends local schools.

Bourdon, an outspoken Republican and Trump supporter, described the video as a matter of public safety for the entire community.

Bourdon wants the police and school district to take action.

“Whatever they’re doing right now is a process, but if the process doesn’t end with the firing of this teacher, I think the city is going to have an expensive legal battle,” Bourdon said.

Bourdon wasn’t the only one to speak out.

Lori Barnes, a Cheshire resident and grandmother of a child with special needs who will attend Cheshire public schools next year, expressed concern about the video.

“I can’t unsee it and I can’t enter this school. I’m shivering. I cannot go to this school and hand my child over to this person,” Barnes said.

At the meeting, City Council President Peter Talbot briefly addressed the situation and condemned the teacher’s actions.

“We have seen an exploitative tirade from an individual associated with Cheshire Public Schools,” Talbot said. “This type of rhetoric has no place in our society and is absolutely pointless.”

Superintendent Jeff Solans did not identify the teacher or provide further details, saying only that the situation was still under investigation.

In a statement sent to families, Solans acknowledged the ongoing problem but declined further comment.

The meeting did not mention whether disciplinary action was taken against the teacher or whether interim measures were taken.

In response to growing concerns, there was an increased police presence at schools in Cheshire on Tuesday to ensure the safety of pupils and staff.

As the investigation continues, the Cheshire community remains divided over next steps, with many calling for decisive action and clearer communication from city officials.

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