Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has accused a teacher of harassing an eighth-grade student, labeling him a “misogynist” because of his conservative political views. Uthmeier communicated these concerns in a letter addressed to Sarasota County Schools’ Superintendent Terry Connor, alleging that a history teacher at Pine View School, Liz Ballard, targeted the student for his opinions on multiple occasions.
According to the letter, Ballard frequently raised political topics during class, despite the student expressing that his parents had “expressly forbidden” him from engaging in such discussions. It appears that this parental directive was disregarded, as the teacher continued to involve the student, using him to represent the “conservative perspective” in front of classmates.
The attorney general stated that Ballard not only labeled the student a “misogynist” but also disseminated that characterization throughout the school and questioned the influence of the student’s father. Uthmeier noted that several parents had previously filed HR investigations regarding Ballard’s behavior.
If the claims of harassment and bullying are accurate, Uthmeier indicated that the teacher would have violated Florida law, the School Board’s policies, and fundamental ethical standards expected of educators. “Ms. Ballard singled out this student and, in defiance of his parents’ express instructions, pressured him to defend political viewpoints in front of his peers,” he remarked.
Uthmeier continued, stating that Ballard had made disrespectful comments about the student’s father and engaged in actions that harmed the child’s reputation. He believed that this deliberate bullying and harassment breached Florida law and various ethical guidelines, suggesting that if the allegations were proven true, she should be dismissed from her teaching position and have her educator certification revoked.
He asserted, “If true, she should be fired and never teach in Florida again.” Uthmeier has requested an update from the Superintendent and School Board by October 1 concerning what actions they plan to take regarding these allegations.
In response, Superintendent Connor acknowledged receipt of Uthmeier’s letter and affirmed that the Sarasota County Schools take such concerns seriously. He emphasized that every student deserves an environment that is safe, respectful, and conducive to learning, free from harassment or retaliation for their beliefs or those of their families.
Connor assured that the district would investigate the matter thoroughly, promising a fair process while respecting student privacy. He mentioned that they would limit public discussions about specific details to maintain the integrity of the investigation, but remained committed to upholding accountability for the wellbeing of students and families involved with Sarasota County Schools.
