UPDATE: Parents and community members in Waterville, Maine, are urgently calling for the removal of George J. Mitchell’s name from the George J. Mitchell Elementary School following disturbing revelations linking him to convicted child sexual predator Jeffrey Epstein. The push comes after the U.S. Department of Justice released emails showing attempts to arrange meetings between Epstein and Mitchell aides from 2010 to 2013.
The matter was brought to light during a heated board meeting on Monday night, where three parents expressed deep concern over the association. Jennifer Johnson, a teacher at the school and former president of the parent-teacher organization, stated, “Mitchell is linked to Epstein, who has preyed on children.” She urged the board to consider this serious request, reflecting the sentiment of many parents whose children attend the school.
Another parent, Larkin Silverman, whose daughter is enrolled at the school, went further by suggesting a new name: “Waterville Elementary.” Silverman, a survivor of adolescent sexual exploitation, expressed her distress over the ongoing revelations related to Epstein and stated, “I have been deeply, personally disturbed by the onslaught of new information that continues to come to light.”
Sarah Staffiere, also a concerned mother, echoed these feelings, urging the board to act swiftly on the renaming issue. “I hope that the board considers renaming quickly,” she said, highlighting the emotional impact this matter has on families in the community.
School Superintendent Peter Hallen confirmed that the school board’s policy committee will discuss the renaming request at its next meeting on March 3, 2023. Hallen indicated that the committee could expedite discussions if necessary, potentially meeting sooner. The committee, which includes Hallen, board Chair Erin McDermott, and member Aimee Morris, typically meets at 3 p.m. at the district’s central office conference room, where public attendance is permitted but commenting is not.
Mitchell, now 92, has not been linked to any child sexual abuse but has faced backlash due to his past associations. He served as a U.S. senator from 1980 to 1995 and held significant roles in peace negotiations in Northern Ireland and the Middle East. However, the recent revelations have led institutions like The Queen’s University Belfast to sever ties with him, determining that continuing to honor his legacy was inappropriate.
A spokesperson for Mitchell stated that he “profoundly regrets” his past association with Epstein and condemns the actions of the convicted predator. Recently, he also resigned as honorary chair of the Mitchell Institute, which aims to encourage Maine youth to pursue higher education.
The situation in Waterville has sparked a broader conversation about accountability and the implications of legacy in educational institutions. As parents, students, and community members await the school board’s decision, the urgency of this matter is palpable, underlining the need for swift action in response to these serious allegations.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
