We, the undersigned members of the Lee's Summit community, are calling for the immediate resignation of Bill Haley from his position on the Lee's Summit School Board. Mr. Haley's recent decision to display gunshot bullet casings and a "Redneck Lives Matter" flag at an event hosted by the Lee's Summit Educational Foundation is deeply troubling and unacceptable. This conduct not only undermines the ethical standards expected of a school board member but also fosters division and distrust within our community.

The Lee's Summit Educational Foundation, a non-profit organization contracted by the school district, plays a critical role in raising private donations to support essential programs within the Lee's Summit School District. The Foundation is funded by the school district, which means it is funded by the taxpayers. This includes the Executive Director and other leadership positions, as well as office space. Given the close relationship between the Foundation and the school district, Mr. Haley’s behavior at this event is even more concerning. His actions reflect poorly on the school district and compromise the integrity of an organization that exists to enhance the educational experience of our students. Taxpayers deserve confidence that their dollars are not being used to promote hatred and division within our community.

The display of the "Redneck Lives Matter" flag is particularly egregious as it mocks the Black Lives Matter movement—a protest movement that has been instrumental in bringing attention to the systemic police brutality faced by Black citizens. Such a display is a blatant act of racism that seeks to trivialize the very real and serious concerns about racial injustice in our society. As a board member, Mr. Haley is supposed to represent and serve all members of our school district, including students, teachers, administrators, and families of all races and backgrounds. His actions have shown a lack of respect for the diverse community he is supposed to serve and protect.

Moreover, the decision to bring gunshot bullet casings to an event sponsored by a school district partner is not only in poor taste but also demonstrates a severe lack of judgment. In a time when school shootings have become alarmingly frequent, such a display is insensitive and inappropriate. It has caused many in our community to feel less safe, particularly in a school environment that should be focused on the well-being and safety of our students.

Bill Haley's actions have clearly shown that he is unfit to continue serving on the Lee's Summit School Board. We demand his immediate resignation to restore trust and ensure that our school board is led by individuals who are committed to promoting an inclusive, safe, and respectful environment for all.

We urge the Lee's Summit School Board to take this matter seriously and to hold its members accountable to the highest ethical standards.