Scottsdale Unified School District Faces Uproar Over Board Member’s Remarks
Amidst growing controversy, a Scottsdale school board meeting on Tuesday was surrounded by protesters demanding the resignation of Board Member Carine Werner. The call for her resignation follows an incident where Werner was overheard making disparaging comments about a district employee on a hot mic.
During a previous board meeting, Werner, who participated virtually, was caught on microphone referring to the district employee as “morbidly obese.” Her comments were made in the context of a presentation by the district’s director of nutrition services, who was discussing a meal distribution program for children during the summer months.
Holding signs and voicing their frustration, community members assembled outside the school board meeting to push for Werner’s resignation. “It’s outrageous that a spokesperson for the Scottsdale Unified School District should be making disparaging remarks about the employees and people who are really trying to help the health of our student population,” stated Peggy Kline, a Scottsdale resident.
Kathy Fishman, another local resident, expressed that board members need to focus on constructive efforts for children. She remarked, “What she has done here is not. I think that people are very upset about it and would like to see better leadership.”
Among the speakers at the board meeting was student Riley DeFusco, who criticized Werner’s lack of an apology. DeFusco stated, “As a student of SUSD, I’m equally ashamed and appalled by your actions. Regardless of the context, your words were inappropriate, demeaning and cruel.” He emphasized the importance of accountability, pointing out Werner’s failure to apologize publicly.
Werner, who also serves as a state senator, did not attend the latest school board meeting, leading to more dissatisfaction among community members urging her to step down. She has not responded to requests for comment regarding the incident.
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