A San Jose elementary school is issuing an apology after a board trustee’s performance at the school’s winter concert in which he sang a song that had “references that were not appropriate for a young audience.”
In an email to parents, Reed Elementary School Principal Jennifer Ponzio said that the San Jose Unified School District trustee, who was identified as Brian Wheatley, “requested to sing a song that was not part of the planned program.” Ponzio did not name the song in her email, but said that it dates back to the 1940s and included a mention of a weapon.
“After approximately 30 seconds, I intervened and stopped the sing-along,” the principal said. “This moment does not reflect the values of our school or of San Jose Unified, and we deeply regret that it occurred during an event meant to be joyful.”
Ponzio, who did not respond to a request for comment, said that Wheatley “has acknowledged this lapse in judgment and has taken full responsibility for the impact of his actions.”
“As a school community, we also recognize the importance of clear expectations and safeguards for school events,” she added. “Moving forward, we will be more intentional and diligent in ensuring that all performances and remarks follow approved agendas and reflect our shared values, so that this does not happen again.”
Ponzio’s email also included a note from Wheatley to the principal in which the trustee offered a “direct and sincere apology.”
“In an effort to bring levity and humor, I shared verses that were inappropriate, and I’m truly sorry for any disruption or distress this may have caused students, staff or families,” Wheatley wrote. “I take full responsibility for the impact of my actions. As a board member for the past seven years, I value the trust our school communities place in us and have deeply appreciated many positive moments we have shared at Reed events.”
Wheatley declined to comment, referring this news organization to a district spokesperson, who could not be reached for comment. Wheatley was elected to the board in 2018 and re-elected in 2022 — his term expires next December. Wheatley previously worked as a school teacher for more than three decades before retiring in 2020.