A Florida principal is under scrutiny after lyrics from rapper Fetty Wap’s song “Trap Queen” appeared in Trout Creek Academy’s yearbook. The St. John’s County School District removed Principal Katie O’Connell following the inclusion of the line, “Everybody hatin’, we just call them fans though,” attributed to her. The quote, which appeared on the yearbook’s first page, has led to O’Connell being placed on administrative leave as the district investigates whether she approved the quote or if it was added later without her knowledge.
According to St. John’s Citizen, O’Connell’s contract is unlikely to be renewed, with some parents defending her leadership while others find the quote inappropriate for a school setting. The controversy revolves around whether O’Connell selected the quote or if it was inserted during the production process. The principal was placed on paid leave on May 20, with her leave extending through the end of her contract on June 30.
The song “Trap Queen” contains references to drug dealing and strip clubs, raising concerns among parents about its suitability for a school yearbook. Some parents believe the quote mocked families who previously raised issues at the school. Others, however, argue that removing O’Connell would negatively impact the school community. Parent Chris Farlow expressed concern, saying, “If you start getting rid of the best of the best, who are we going to have to teach our children to be the best that they can be?”
Investigations have not definitively determined who added the quote. NewsNation reported that yearbooks were distributed on May 19 before officials halted their distribution. O’Connell claims she was unaware of the quote until it circulated online. She told Action News Jax that she did not approve the quote and typically goes by “Miss O” rather than “Mrs. O’Connell.”
The yearbook teacher, Jodi Stobe, provided conflicting accounts regarding O’Connell’s awareness of the quote. O’Connell’s attorney, Jack Webb, called the situation “a bunch of garbage,” stating that she is being unfairly blamed. O’Connell has expressed a desire to continue her career as a principal, albeit not at Trout Creek Academy.
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