Southside Family Charter School in Minneapolis has temporarily switched to online learning after receiving multiple threats following the fatal shooting of Renee Good, a parent and school board member. School leaders reported the threats to local law enforcement and described the attacks as “very hurtful” during a painful time, while also acknowledging the outpouring of community support.
A School Rooted in Social Justice
Founded in the 1970s, Southside Family Charter School has a long history of community involvement. Originally a community initiative, it briefly functioned as an alternative school within the Minneapolis Public Schools system before becoming a charter school in 2006. The school currently serves students in kindergarten through fifth grade, a reduction from its previous K-8 structure, with an enrollment of 26 students. Its curriculum emphasizes social justice and includes regular field trips, such as civil rights tours to the South.
The school operates with a teacher-led model, with teachers responding to inquiries collectively through spokesperson Alberto Monserrate. Renee Good was appointed to the school board in August and actively participated in school initiatives, even contributing to a spring plant sale with her wife, Becca.
Escalating Threats and Online Attacks
Following the shooting, the school became the target of a coordinated online campaign, fueled by a narrative portraying Good as an activist and, falsely, as a “domestic terrorist.” Representative Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) called for the revocation of federal funding, claiming the school “radicalizes students” and “demonizes ICE agents.” A TikTok video questioning Good’s training and an X (formerly Twitter) post questioning her character and calling for the repeal of the 19th Amendment – granting women the right to vote – gained significant traction, with the latter receiving a reply from Elon Musk.
In response to the threats, the school temporarily removed its Facebook page and most of its web presence, including its archive on the Wayback Machine. Documents from a December board meeting revealed the school had previously shared resources about local ICE watch efforts, including a hotline for reporting sightings of federal agents.
Community Support and a Food Shelf
Despite the attacks, Southside Family Charter School has requested privacy and expressed gratitude for the support received from the community. School leaders emphasized the difficulty of the situation for the school community and Good’s family. The school has also initiated a food shelf to support families and community members in need, inviting those aware of individuals requiring assistance to contact them at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the school to switch to online learning?
The school switched to online learning due to safety concerns after receiving multiple threats via phone and email.
What role did Renee Good play at the school?
Renee Good was a parent of a student at the school and a member of the school board. She actively participated in school activities and was described as a positive presence by school leaders.
What kind of curriculum does Southside Family Charter School offer?
The school focuses on social justice and incorporates activism into its education. It also offers an “inclusive curriculum” and “travel studies” to enhance learning and community building.
How will the school navigate the ongoing online attacks and ensure the safety of its students and staff moving forward?
