Citizen ‘Bares’ Some During Frederick County School Board Meeting

He says he was bringing attention to 1st-Amendment rights regarding some school system policies.Frederick, Md (KM) A man described as a “confrontational activist” bared some during a Wednesday meeting of the Frederick County Board of Education. Shaun Porter walked up to the board, turned around and then lowered his trousers. He told the News Post that he wanted to draw attention to 1st Amendment rights regarding the School System’s Policy 443 which makes  accommodations for students who are transgender, particularly for bathrooms  and locker rooms use.    He also said he was protesting the removal of candidate Heather Fletcher from a meeting where she sat down and identified herself as a Board member; and the investigation into Board Member Colt Black who is against the School System’s Policy of gender identity. .Board member Janie Inglis  Monier told the News Post she said she only saw Porter’s boxer shorts, not his buttock.Spokeswoman Katie Robine with the Sheriffs Office told the paper   there’s no law against exposing one’s buttocks, but exposing one genitalia is against the law.Meanwhile, about 50 Thurmont Middle School students walked out of classes earlier this week. Their parents said in Facebook postings the kids were protesting Policy 443 which deals with gender identity.The principal said in a letter to parents the demonstration was unannounced. It also said Thurmont Middle School and other schools are  “an inclusive environment.” and the role of the adults at the schools during any peaceful protest is to “ensure student safety, minimize disruption of the school day, and maintain respect for all individuals.””We do not tolerate hate speech, and any incidents which violate the FCPS Student Code of Conduct will be addressed accordingly,” the letter said.The principal also said in the letter that counseling and support services are available for any student who needs assistance in processing their feelings and concerns. It also encourages parents to have open conservations with their children about the protest at Thurmont Middle School.By Kevin McManus