Parents, clergy and residents urge Ken Warner to resign over online remarks

Dozens of community members addressed the Vigo County School Corp during the special-called public-comment period Oct. 2, urging the board to demand the resignation of board member Ken Warner for social-media remarks they described as harmful to children and survivors.

"If he hasn't already, I am once again asking that Mr. Warner resign from his position on the board," Hillary Stevens told trustees, saying she and other parents were disappointed that it took local media to prompt public statements. Multiple speakers referenced the district's code of ethics and called on the board to act.

Alicia Ewing, a parent and coach, said the corporation's acceptable-use and online-conduct policies treat board members as users and require professional online behavior. She told the board she was "outraged" that board leadership had not demanded a stronger response. Elizabeth Swalls, speaking on behalf of others who fear retaliation, said "Apologists have no place in human civilization, but especially should not be allowed anywhere near the education of our children."

Cassie Jackson read several social-media exchanges attributed to Ken Warner, including a directly quoted vulgar slur, and said petition signers were seeking accountability. Speakers repeatedly tied their pleas to student safety and the moral responsibility of elected trustees.