Farmington Board of Education Chair Bill Bridal Beckert told the board on Sept. 15 that an offensive social‑media post that appeared on his personal Facebook feed was not authored by him and that he had been working with IT professionals to determine how it appeared.
The board’s vice chair, Andrea Sabinski, read a written statement on behalf of the Farmington Board of Education saying the board “condemn[s] the targeted and unspeakable act of political violence and all acts of senseless violence that result in the loss of precious lives” and stressing schools must remain safe spaces for students. Sabinski read the statement after Bridal Beckert asked to address a post that had circulated on Friday, Sept. 12.
The issue dominated the chair’s report and public comment portion of the meeting. Bridal Beckert said, “I didn’t post it. The post does not reflect how I feel … and there is nothing in my 20 years of service to this community to suggest that it could be me.” He said he had spent the day working with IT professionals to “get to the bottom of it.”
Board members and public commenters pressed for calm and for the board to model civil discourse. Board member James (last name not specified in the record) said the post was “wrong” and that he supported Bridal Beckert, calling him a “dedicated public servant” with a long record in town. Another board member said the controversy should not distract the board from its work, noting the district’s upcoming superintendent search.
The board did not take a formal personnel action or vote regarding the post during the Sept. 15 meeting. Several members said they had followed district guidance on handling constituent emails and on not responding individually to matters not on the agenda. One board member, speaking during the public comment portion, noted that board members are restricted by meeting rules from speaking on items unless they are on the agenda and encouraged constituents who want formal action to press the majority that controls future agendas.
The board’s written message read by Sabinski said in part, “As a board of education, we serve as role models of civil discourse, open‑mindedness, respect, and deep care for all people on behalf of our students and our community.” The statement concluded: “The Farmington Board of Education has heard and understands the concerns and reactions we have received related to the social media post.”
Discussion vs. decision: The board discussion on Sept. 15 was limited to public remarks, a read statement, and individual member commentary. No motion to censure, remove, or suspend the chair was made or voted on at the meeting.
A broad cross‑section of board members called for reduced partisan attacks and for the board to prioritize students during the district’s business going forward.
Background and next steps: Bridal Beckert said he had removed the post and would pursue technical and forensic inquiries with IT professionals. The board said it would continue work on district business; several members emphasized transparency and communication with the public if further action is proposed.