As many of you know, I did a public information request for the emails of Tom Hearn, Christa Hazel, and Superintendent Matt Handelman. These emails show Susan Moss, LGBT attorney, contacted the district on Sept. 2, last year, about changing the district’s non-discrimination policy to “add the words.”

In an email on Nov. 25, Coeur d’Alene School Supt. Matt Handelman sent the following email to Chair Hearn:

“He (Tony Stewart) said he worked on the city ordinance for many months before it became public. He thought we should get the help of the CEA (Coeur d’Alene Education Association) also as this could relate to benefits with same sex couples teachers … He said we should thoroughly research what has been done on this LGBT rights issue locally and beyond. Hopefully we have time and this doesn’t get a life of its own through press attention.”

On Dec. 2, Tom Hearn said, “Hopefully this won’t get too public before the January meeting, or I agree we may have difficulty staying ahead of the issue.”

Christa Hazel’s primary concerns were related to the possible backlash affecting the levy vote. This came up in an email to Dave Oliveria at the Spokesman Review.

There was even coordination with the district and city attorneys before January.

In the January school board meeting, John Padula asked, “How much do you know about the transgender policies that are coming to the district?” Chair Hearn said, “There has not been any request made to the board regarding any transgender issues.” This is the opposite of the truth. Tim Scott made a similar inquiry at the February school board meeting, and Chair Hearn gave the same answer.

These emails show open meeting laws were violated, and I have filed a complaint with the prosecuting attorney.

Mr. Hearn, the Chair of the Board, is the voice of the School Board. You have proven that you cannot be trusted, and I ask that you step down.

MARY JO FINNEY

Coeur d’Alene