Lee County school district accused of spying on social media

Accusations of spying coming out of the most recent Lee County School Board meeting.

The rumors started less than 48 hours ago during an action meeting when members of the public spoke.

One woman accused the district’s communications office of using staff to spy on and collect social media content about the district, infiltrate private community groups and post comments online.

“The district is paying staff to infiltrate private Facebook groups, then they’re telling those employees to pose as parents to shift the tone of the public discourse to make the district look good,” Jacqueline Perez said during the meeting.

The district’s social media policy states that “it’s vital when posting on social media to be honest about who you are… be thoughtful before you post… and respect the purpose of the community where you are posting.”

WINK News reached out to the district’s communications office about the comments.

Lee County school district spokesman Rob Spicker said: “Public comments are directed at the board and not something we typically respond to.”

Several board members declined to comment to WINK News.

The district also said, unrelated to public comment on Tuesday night, its chief engagement officer has resigned.