Osseo School Board Chairman Resigns Over Social Media Posts

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The head of a Twin Cities school board has stepped down after making controversial social media posts.

Robert Gerhart resigned as chair of the Osseo Area School board Friday afternoon.

The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations said Gerhart made racist comments online, including a post with the headline "Minnesota Muslim Eating Bloody Meat Introduces Horrified Citizens To His Latest 'Game.'"

Superintendent Kate McGuire released this statement Saturday morning:

I believe it's important for school board members to play a leadership role in modeling the core values of our organization, and I respect Mr. Gerhart's consideration of the negative impact of his actions. I want our community to know that District 279 staff remains steadfastly committed to ensuring safe and healthy schools where every student, employee, family member and resident feels safe, welcome, and respected.