Demand Steven Clevenger Be Removed from Marianna High Due to Racist Social Media History
The Issue
As concerned members of the Marianna community, alumni of Marianna High School, and/or alumni of Chipola College, we are deeply troubled by the recent hiring of Steven "Steve" Clevenger as Marianna High School Head Baseball Coach. This individual has a documented history of racist, insensitive, and offensive social media posts during his time as a former Major League Baseball player that are in direct conflict with the values we expect from educators and mentors in our public schools.
In an increasingly diverse and inclusive community, the role of educators and school staff is more important than ever. They are not just instructors—they are role models, mentors, and protectors of our children’s physical, emotional and psychological safety. Students of all backgrounds deserve to feel respected, valued, and supported. Hiring someone with a known record of divisive behavior sends the wrong message to students, staff, and the community at large.
We believe that schools must uphold the highest standards for those who work directly with our youth. Someone who has publicly shared racist views, regardless of their athletic accomplishments, should not be given a position of influence over young people—particularly not in a diverse school environment.
This is not a matter of second chances or past mistakes; it is a matter of community trust, student safety, and moral leadership. We urge Jackson County School Board Superintendent, Hunter Nolen, and the administration of Marianna High School to:
- Review and restructure this and future hiring decisions immediately.
- Terminate the employment of Steven Clevenger based on his public history of racist statements.
- Commit to hiring staff who reflect the values of our community and will be inclusive, respectful and a positive role model to all youth.
We the community and alumni of Marianna stand with our students of color and their families, and we will not be silent in the face of decisions that could harm their educational experience, participation in extracurricular activities, and personal development.
Please sign and share this petition to demand accountability and protect the integrity of our schools.
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The Issue
As concerned members of the Marianna community, alumni of Marianna High School, and/or alumni of Chipola College, we are deeply troubled by the recent hiring of Steven "Steve" Clevenger as Marianna High School Head Baseball Coach. This individual has a documented history of racist, insensitive, and offensive social media posts during his time as a former Major League Baseball player that are in direct conflict with the values we expect from educators and mentors in our public schools.
In an increasingly diverse and inclusive community, the role of educators and school staff is more important than ever. They are not just instructors—they are role models, mentors, and protectors of our children’s physical, emotional and psychological safety. Students of all backgrounds deserve to feel respected, valued, and supported. Hiring someone with a known record of divisive behavior sends the wrong message to students, staff, and the community at large.
We believe that schools must uphold the highest standards for those who work directly with our youth. Someone who has publicly shared racist views, regardless of their athletic accomplishments, should not be given a position of influence over young people—particularly not in a diverse school environment.
This is not a matter of second chances or past mistakes; it is a matter of community trust, student safety, and moral leadership. We urge Jackson County School Board Superintendent, Hunter Nolen, and the administration of Marianna High School to:
- Review and restructure this and future hiring decisions immediately.
- Terminate the employment of Steven Clevenger based on his public history of racist statements.
- Commit to hiring staff who reflect the values of our community and will be inclusive, respectful and a positive role model to all youth.
We the community and alumni of Marianna stand with our students of color and their families, and we will not be silent in the face of decisions that could harm their educational experience, participation in extracurricular activities, and personal development.
Please sign and share this petition to demand accountability and protect the integrity of our schools.
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Petition created on May 24, 2025