Newly-appointed elementary principal has alarming arrest record, report reveals.
A Controversial Hiring: Drag Queen Principal with Troubling Past
A newly-hired Oklahoma school principal is making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Dr. Shane Murnan, a well-known drag queen, was hired in June to lead John Glenn Elementary in Oklahoma City. However, it has recently come to light that Murnan has a troubling past, including previous charges of child pornography.
The news of Murnan’s hiring gained attention after the Substack V1sut highlighted his past and lifestyle. The controversy surrounding the appointment has sparked a heated debate.
A Checkered Past
Murnan’s “previous charges” date back to 2001 when he was arrested for alleged possession of child pornography. The Tulsa World reported that four explicit images involving underage individuals were found on his computer. However, Murnan was not convicted of a crime in this matter, and the charges were dismissed more than 20 years ago.
Despite these troubling allegations, the Western Heights Public Schools defended their decision to hire Murnan. They emphasized his extensive experience in education, excellent reputation, and multiple degrees in the field.
A Dual Identity
What makes Murnan’s case even more controversial is his dual identity as a drag queen. Performing under the name Shantel Mandalay, Murnan entertains children and reads books about gender while dressed in drag. This aspect of his life has drawn both support and criticism.
Meet Shane Murnan- elementary principal at @wh_isd.
Shane is a drag queen who performs for children and reads books about gender to kids while dressed in drag.
Shane was also previously arrested on child porn charges.
Would you want this person in charge of your kid’s school? pic.twitter.com/yNuZyt3HRK
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) August 30, 2023
The Gayly, an LGBT publication, previously profiled Murnan as “Ms. Shantel” in 2018. In the article, Murnan expressed his passion for both drag and education, aiming to make a positive impact on children’s lives.
Despite the controversy, Murnan’s supporters argue that his drag performances and involvement in Drag Queen Story Hour provide children with a safe space to explore their identities and promote acceptance.
A Letter to Concerned Parents
Western Heights Public Schools Superintendent Brayden Savage addressed the concerns surrounding Murnan’s hiring in a letter to parents. Savage assured them that the district followed “usual hiring practices” and acknowledged the potential concerns and questions arising from the situation.
While the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Murnan’s past and present will impact his role as principal of John Glenn Elementary.
Source: The Western Journal
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