Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has called for the dismissal of a history teacher at Pine View School in Osprey, Florida, alleging she deliberately attempted to "cancel" an eighth-grade student due to his conservative beliefs. The teacher, Liz Ballard, is accused of singling out the student during class debates, despite his parents' explicit instructions that he should not participate in such discussions.
According to a letter from Uthmeier, Ballard allegedly described the student as the "conservative perspective" in her class and subsequently labeled him a "misogynist," spreading the slur throughout the school. Uthmeier stated that Ballard "harassed, disparaged and deliberately tried to ‘cancel’ an eighth-grade student for his conservative views," and engaged in the "reputational destruction of a child." The attorney general also claimed that Ballard questioned the suitability of the student's father.
Ballard has reportedly been the subject of multiple human resources investigations and parental complaints. She has denied the accusations, stating, "What I read in that letter is not accurate at all compared to the actual investigation."
Terry Connor, the superintendent of the Sarasota County School Board, which oversees Pine View School, has not confirmed Ballard's current employment status. Connor issued a statement emphasizing that "every student deserves a classroom where they feel safe, respected, and free to learn" and that "no student should face harassment, humiliation, or retaliation because of their beliefs or their family’s views." He added that the allegations warrant careful attention and that the school board will examine the facts to ensure a fair process and take appropriate action.
Uthmeier has requested an update from the school board by October 1. Pine View School, a selective magnet institution serving grades two through 12, is highly ranked nationally. It was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School in 2023 and has also received top rankings from Niche for its elementary and middle school programs.