School board president says colleague’s remark ‘unprovoked’

Southeast Missourian

President of the Perry County School Board in Perryville, Nancy Voelker released a statement Wednesday saying board member Mark Gremaud’s recent derogatory comment toward a female board member was “unprovoked.” In a statement she said “The discussion was not about teachers, students, farmers or any other conjecture you may see on social media. We were discussing board procedures and board behaviors.” The board Tuesday night voted 4-3 twice by roll call, first to censure Gremaud, then to request his resignation. The board does not have the power to force Gremaud out of office. Kate Martin, communications director at the district, said the board chose to determine the length of the censure at a later date. During the period of censure, Mr. Gremaud is not allowed to speak in open or closed session, but he did vote by hand signal last night. At a recent closed executive meeting, Gremaud is alleged to have addressed board member Kathy Carron, saying: “Kathy, you are just a woman. The only thing you know is laying on your back with your legs in the air splayed.” Gremaud denied that was the exact comment made and denied addressing Carron by name. He declined to comment to the SE Missourian Wednesday and declined to say whether he planned to resign. Voelker added the district does not tolerate discrimination of any sort.