(WWJ) Some comments by a metro Detroit School Board president have drawn a lot of response. Now some in the community want him gone.
Northville School Board President Matthew Wilks shared a post on his Facebook page that downplayed the coronavirus pandemic, stating: "Where are the videos of panic in the hospitals? They don't exist. This 'Pandemic' exists only in falsified statistics shouted on the news without context."
In another post, Wilks commented: "How about we allow schools to reopen and Grandma can take the extreme precautions? She can wear a space suit when she 'needs' to go out and shop, and the rest of the world can go about their lives instread of shutting everything down because she might get sick? It would be pretty selfish of Grandma to have everyone else take the burden of her risk."
A petition is now going around asking for Wilks' resignation.
Monday afternoon, Wilks issued a statement saying he was simply sharing his opinion, and that schools will proceed with caution in their reopening plans. He also disclosed that this own father was sickened by COVID-19,
Wilks' complete statement is as follows:
"First of all, my opinions are, were and always have been my own, and not the position of the Northville Board of Education. I stand as one person on that body, which acts only as a collective.
"As you may know, the Board is considering under what circumstances to re-open schools in the fall. There are many considerations involved in that decision, including how to best further the education of Northville's children, including my own, in the safest way possible.
"In connection with this decision, it is imperative to consider all viewpoints, not just the loudest or the most active on social media. I understand quite personally the struggle that people have been going through in these times. My own father, a 35-year educator, was stuck in a hospital for a week without a visitor; the loneliness was extremely difficult on him. Fortunately, he recovered, and I know that is not true for everyone. Our hearts go out to those impacted.
"I look forward to the discussion of the Board as we review and develop the NPS school re-entry plan. I serve with some of the most caring and thoughtful board members, and I know that all of us are ill at ease with the downsides all of the proposed choices; there is simply no way to avoid all of them. COVID has been catastrophic and we have to make sure that we address it in the best way possible. To help, the district engaged an 130-person Task Force, who spent countless hours reviewing plans, guidance, and the practical considerations of school operations. They have put out a comprehensive plan, which is under review by the Board. I know that, with the help of our teachers, staff, administration and parents, NPS students will be given the best education in the safest possible way. - Matthew J. Wilk."
Wilks' posts have since been taken down. It does not appear he is considering stepping down.
