RismadarVoice Reporters, May 12, 2026
A Tennessee high school student, Hannah Campbell has criticised her local school board for refusing to remove a longtime board member who allegedly made an inappropriate comment toward her during a public meeting.
Campbell, a student representative on the Washington County School Board, publicly condemned the board during a meeting last week, accusing members of failing to take decisive action against board member Keith Ervin after he referred to her as “hot” during an April 2 session.
Speaking before the board, Campbell described Ervin’s behaviour as “sexist and derogatory” and said she felt disappointed that officials allowed him to remain in office despite public backlash.
“The failure to act has hurt me just as much,” she said, criticising board leadership for not intervening during the incident.
The controversy began after Ervin approached Campbell following her presentation at a public meeting, placed his arm around her, and made remarks that many residents considered inappropriate. Video footage from the meeting showed some members laughing lightly before proceedings continued.
The incident sparked outrage across the Washington County community, with parents and residents demanding Ervin’s removal from the board.
Although the board later voted to formally censure him, Ervin retained his position, a decision that has continued to generate criticism.
Ervin has denied any wrongdoing, insisting his comments were misunderstood. According to him, the word “hot” was intended to mean that Campbell was “on a roll” during her presentation and not a reference to her appearance.
Public reaction to the controversy has remained strong, with an online petition calling for his removal attracting thousands of signatures from concerned residents and parents.
The case has renewed debate over professional conduct within educational institutions and the responsibility of school boards to address allegations of inappropriate behaviour involving students.
