Charleston School Board: "Bitch," Please

The Charleston County School District failed to pass a new policy that would have penalized members for being foul-mouthed grumpy old men.

Last month, The Post and Courier broke a story about board member Arthur Ravenel threatening the job of Superintendent Nancy McGinley and claiming that he’d “gotten rid of one bitch (former Superintendent Maria Goodloe-Johnson)” and he’d get rid of another.

The board claimed to have addressed the issue behind closed doors, but the community outcry after Ravenel’s comments were revealed led to a proposed policy change that called for civility in discussing district matters, with penalties including a public reprimand and potential removal from office.

In a now typical 4-4 split, the board could not pass the new rules and they’ll be sent back to committee for consideration. Board Vice Chairwoman Nancy Cook voted against the measure because she said she didn’t feel like her brothers keeper.

“I can’t imagine any board initiating removal from office,” she said. “That’s for voters to decide.”

Ravenel, who also voted against the new rules, continued to defend his actions.

“This is political, feel good stuff,” he said. “I think it’s a little silly.”