South Orangetown parents demand action after board member’s laugh reaction to violent post

Board members and residents pressed the South Orangetown Central School District on Monday evening after a board member’s social media reaction drew widespread condemnation and prompted the district to open a legal review.

Multiple speakers at public comment said screenshots circulated in the community showing board member Don Kits had reacted to an online post they described as endorsing violence. The board acknowledged the complaints and said the action did not reflect the district. "The Board members action does not represent the position of the Board or our school district," Superintendent Brian said, adding that "the board and I are in the process of reviewing policy and determining an appropriate course of action."

Community speakers called for rapid and public consequences. Christine Henry, an elementary school teacher, told the board she was "utterly disgusted" and urged the district to "move swiftly and publicly." Lisa Kramer, a parent of two district students, said the reaction "set a harmful precedent" and urged the board to "ensure that such behavior is not tolerated or normalized." Robert Martel, another parent, said the board member should resign, calling the reaction "a carelessness for human life and a severe deficiency in morality and ethics." Emily Heim said the board member had "lost the trust of many parents."

The board made clear it had begun an internal review and had referred the matter to the district’s legal counsel. "Once again, the board would like to apologize for the situation the staff were put in, and we are committed to not having the same issues next year," a board representative said during announcements.

Board member Dawn, who addressed the chamber in defense of her reaction, said her intent had been misread: "My response was laughing at the person who posted, not the post. I found her post outrageous and absurd, laughable. I do not and never have condoned violence in any situation," she said, and offered to meet with concerned residents.

Several speakers noted the matter could be elevated to outside organizations. Lisa Kramer said she would consider reaching out to the New York State School Boards Association for review. The board did not announce a timeline for any personnel or governance actions; officials said next steps would follow the legal review and the board’s policy review.

After public comment and additional agenda items the board voted to adjourn to executive session to discuss matters relating to a district officer; the board chair said no further public business would be discussed afterward.