Cheshire Teacher Resigns After Video Ignites Firestorm On Social Media

CHESHIRE, CT — The Cheshire teacher who was placed on leave after a video of her railing against voters who supported President-Elect Donald Trump in the election ignited a firestorm on social media has resigned, WTNH News 8 first reported.

Annie Dunleavy, a special education teacher with Cheshire Public Schools, told News 8’s Dennis House that she has resigned and apologized for her actions.

Dunleavy posted the video on SnapChat, and it was then reposted by a friend, according to WTNH News 8. In the video, which garnered national attention, Dunleavy purportedly threatened violence against Trump supporters if the people she cares about weren’t going to be safe in the country.

Superintendent of Schools Jeffrey Solan announced Monday that Dunleavy was temporarily removed from the building pending an investigation, and said the school district had been “inundated with calls and emails predominately from people outside the Cheshire community.”

In an update Wednesday, Solan notified the Cheshire school community that Dunleavy has resigned “effective immediately.”

“The Cheshire Public Schools has a rich tradition of tremendous educators who welcome all students and families with respect and appreciation,” Solan wrote in the message. “The comments on that video did not reflect the position of our school system. They were hurtful, deeply concerning, and ultimately undermined the faith that our community has placed in us. Every student and family has the right to attend our schools free from the concern of political prejudice let alone their safety.

“As a leader of this school system, I feel terrible for the angst that this has caused our community and I look forward to returning our focus on the great work that our educators perform every day.

“I appreciate the patience demonstrated as a due process investigation takes time to ensure that it is methodical, thorough and legally compliant. During any such process, I am obviously limited in what can be shared with members of our community. Thank you for your faith in ensuring that we would ultimately reach an appropriate resolution.”

Dunleavy’s full interview with House will air on Sunday at 10 a.m. on News 8.

Read more at WTNH News 8 here.