A Springfield Public Schools board member, Steve Makoski, recently opposed a resolution expressing support for LGBTQ individuals within the district. He argued that such a statement is unnecessary, asserting that all students and staff are already supported. Makoski believes that the board's focus should be on improving academic performance rather than engaging in what he considers activism.

The resolution was proposed by board member Shurita Thomas-Tate, who cited concerns expressed by LGBTQ students about feeling unsafe. She contended that a statement of support would come at no cost to the board. However, her suggestion was met with disagreement from other board members, including Makoski, who had prepared a statement against the resolution. His remarks were met with applause.

Makoski told Fox News Digital that passing the resolution would imply that LGBTQ individuals were not previously considered. He explained that discussions surrounding a statement of support began 11 months ago, prompted by an online petition initiated by community members. The petition, which garnered nearly 400 signatures, requested the board to vote on a draft statement submitted earlier. It cited statistics indicating a significant portion of Gen Z identifies as LGBTQ+ and experiences bullying or feelings of unsafety at school.

Makoski noted that speakers regularly addressed the perceived lack of LGBTQ support at board meetings, which he viewed as harassment and a distraction from the board's primary responsibilities. He emphasized the importance of focusing on core academic skills like reading, writing, and arithmetic, highlighting concerns about low proficiency levels among students. He stressed that academic improvement was a key component of his platform during the school board elections.

Springfield Public Schools, in a statement to Fox News Digital, affirmed its commitment to the well-being of every student and providing a welcoming and inclusive learning environment. The district emphasized its focus on a five-year strategic plan that prioritizes all students and aims to equip them for success after graduation.