Ohio school board member gives Nazi salute to board president during meeting

School board meeting attendees were left in shock after two members got into an argument that resulted in one member giving the other a sarcastic Nazi salute.

During the monthly Tipp City Board of Education meeting last week, arguments between board members Anne Zakkour and Simon Patry, who is also board president, ensued over the transparency over current district projects.

While discussing the matter Zakkour interjected as the school board president was speaking, according to Fox News.

“I’m talking, do not interrupt me,” Patry said, according to the recording. “Do not make any noises or else. I will not tolerate it.”  

“Oh, Sieg Heil,” Zakkour replied, raising her arm in a Nazi-style salute towards the board president. 

After the meeting, Zakkour clarified her actions were “symbolic” and “sarcastic.” 

“Mr. Patry has been acting like a dictator on our board for years and last night I had enough of his demands of total obedience,” Zakkour said, according to Fox News. “He has cost this district thousands of dollars in baseless allegations and a witch hunt against me and two other women. My reaction last night was symbolic and a sarcastic gesture of submission to a board officer acting as a dictator. Enough is enough!” 

Patry denied allegations of bullying and defended his actions. 

“Mrs. Zakkour’s accusations are lies. All you need to do to see that these are lies is to observe all of our meetings, which are recorded and public record,” Patry said, according to Dayton Daily News.  

Near the end of the meeting, Patry announced his resignation as the board president.  

“At this time, I would like to announce that effective at midnight tonight, I will be resigning from the school board of education,” Patry said. 

A motion that board member Amber Drum be board president until the end of the calendar year passed.