09/02/2025
Hello Michael,
This is Grant Ritchey with Racine County Eye, reaching out to you about social media comments made last weekend in relation to the Democratic Party of Racine's protests/press release.
I have a few questions for you about this. I hope you can answer them for me.
1) Are you aware that a Department of Public Instruction complaint was filed against you and what are your thoughts on that?
2) Looking back at the comments, is there anything you would take back or revise? I know you said the comments weren't made toward retired teachers, but just in general about the protestors?
Thank you
--
Grant Ritchey
Education Report | Racine County Eye
Report For America Corps Member
Response to Racine County Eye:
Hey Grant,
I have no knowledge of this information, while unsurprising, it is noted. My concern pertains to the administrative oversight of the Democratic Party of Racine's page. With the exception of one individual, I have or had no prior information regarding the identities or former professions of the individuals congregating on the corner prior to their retirement.
My current concern arises from my prior affiliation with the Democratic Party. I continue to observe this individual propagating divisive rhetoric within the Racine community. They continue to send their protestors out to the public corners with signs of hate and ignorance. My children have to see this. A cursory investigation into these assertions would readily reveal their inaccuracies. It's really getting to be too much, you know?
It appears that the capacity for civil communication among individuals is diminishing and there is a huge divide. It's unfortunate that some people can't be truthful, with a perceived necessity to misrepresent comments, altering their original intent.
I hold our educators in high regard, particularly those who have retired, recalling their contributions within a more friendlier environment. It is our aspiration to re-engage some of these experienced professionals to gain their perspectives on areas where public education has gone astray. The budgetary constraints that led to early retirement offers for teachers were regrettable, especially considering the value of their extensive experience.
I am not a politician, just a dad compelled to advocate for the injustices and rhetoric being pushed. I believe that the current societal climate, particularly within educational institutions, necessitates a return to fundamental principles. It is my view that schools should prioritize education, shielding students from adult and political agendas. Historically, educators maintained a focus on academic instruction, preserving the students' developmental stage. Displays of affection and personal relationships were not condoned within the school environment, allowing students to concentrate on their studies.
Now, I almost feel that sexuality is promoted within the schools, with prideflags and other sexuality flags displayed throughout the schools. While inclusivity of all students is a fundamental requirement, the active promotion of such principles within educational institutions presents a distinct consideration. Our educators are fostering a learning environment that includes the use of first names, alternative pronouns, and, in certain instances, discussions regarding personal relationships. During our schooling, the emphasis was placed on respect and adherence to the established hierarchy. Our interactions with educators were strictly professional, focusing solely on academic instruction.
I have consistently maintained transparency regarding my convictions. The current state of our children's education does not meet the standards of previous generations, which is a matter of concern. The fact that we currently have State Superintendents lowering the standards to improve state report card metrics, rather than implementing substantive educational reforms, is also concerning. As a parent, I am compelled to express my views on these issues.
It is regrettable that the administrator of the Racine County Democratic Party's page appears to be engaging in practices that undermine transparency, potentially fostering unwarranted anger, fear and apprehension among their audience. Our interactions have been ongoing since my initial run for school board, and this individual has chosen to disclose personal information pertaining to both myself and my family, putting them at risk. Had they maintained complete transparency with their audience, they would not have manipulated the posts, omitted the full context, and frequently edited their own posts to alter the narrative.
My engagement with this individual was direct, driven by a conviction against the propagation of misinformation, fear, and hate. Such tactics, as demonstrated by recent events in Minnesota, can have severe consequences. Addressing the significant mental health challenges within our nation is crucial, and the rhetoric employed by this person is counterproductive.
It is imperative that we prioritize finding common ground for the betterment of Racine and RUSD. By setting aside political agendas and propaganda, and instead engaging in open dialogue with our neighbors, we can discover surprising areas of agreement.
