School board president says colleague's remark 'unprovoked'

Nancy Voelker, president of the Perry County School Board in Perryville, Missouri, released a statement Wednesday, saying board member Mark Gremaud's recent derogatory comment toward a female board member was "unprovoked."

"The discussion was not about teachers, students, farmers or any other conjecture you may see on social media," she said in the statement. "We were discussing board procedures and board behaviors."

The board Tuesday night voted 4-3 twice by roll call, first to censure Gremaud, then to request his resignation. The board does not have the power to force Gremaud out of office.

Mark Gremaud

Kate Martin, communications director at the district, said the board chose to determine the length of the censure at a later date.

"During the period of censure, Mr. Gremaud is not allowed to speak in open or closed session, but he did vote by hand signal last night," she said.

At a recent closed executive meeting, Gremaud is alleged to have addressed board member Kathy Carron, saying: "Kathy, you are just a woman. The only thing you know is laying on your back with your legs in the air splayed."

Gremaud denied that was the exact comment made and denied addressing Carron by name. He declined to comment on the matter Wednesday and declined to say whether he planned to resign.

Board members Jeff Weibrecht and Kevin Bachmann on Tuesday took up for Gremaud, explaining the remark was made during "heated debate" in closed session, and that Gremaud already apologized and tried to explain it wasn't meant to be sexual in nature.

"Mr. Gremaud apologized at the time," Voelker said in the statement. "However, the seriousness of the statement and the manner in which it was spoken made it impossible for us as a board, or a district, to end the matter with an apology."

Voelker added the district does not tolerate discrimination of any sort.

"Our sole purpose as board of education is to serve children by providing excellent educational opportunities and by providing a safe and professional environment for our staff," she said. "I am confident that the measures taken last night serve that purpose and that the administration and staff of District 32 schools remain focused on doing what's best for children each and every day.

"I humbly ask that you pray for and offer support to our teachers, administrators, support staff and students as we move forward."

klamb@semissourian.com

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