The problem for Cote, an attorney elected to the board three years ago? An open microphone that live-streamed his comment to the district’s website, according to WCBS-TV.
Following a storm of outrage, including parents filing formal complaints to the state eduction department, Cote’s resignation was read at Tuesday night’s meeting — and met with applause from the gathered crowd, USA Today reported.
Intensifying the anger is the fact that Cote is a member of the PRIDE initiative to promote diversity and sensitivity, USA Today noted, which was created after Mahopac High School athletes were suspended in March over racist tweets. The incident prompted swift action by the school board, WABC-TV reported.