Сотрудницу школы в Мэттоне уволили после угрозы в соцсетях охотнице-девочке

MATTOON, Ill. (WICS/WRSP)— A Mattoon Community Unit School District 2 employee has been placed on administrative leave after a social media comment directed at an 11-year-old girl drew attention across central Illinois. Avery Houk has been hunting for as long as she can remember. She recently posted a video after a dove hunt, showing off her harvest, talking about recipes and sharing her passion for the outdoors. “Hunting, it's just like, it's just my life. It's my passion,” said Avery Houk. But the conversation surrounding the video quickly changed after a comment was posted by Rebecca Coon. “She said, ‘They mate for life. I hope you die soon, little girl,’” said Houk. Houk said she was surprised someone would direct a comment like that toward her. “It was kind of shocking how someone would say that,” said Houk. The comment spread across social media. Houk and her father, Timothy Houk, said they later learned Coon worked for Mattoon Community Unit School District 2. The district said it became aware of the situation Friday, Sept. 4, and took action. “Upon becoming aware of this matter on Friday, September 4th, the district took immediate action. The employee was placed on administrative leave,” said Mattoon Community Unit School District 2 in a statement. The district said it could not provide additional information regarding personnel matters. However, district officials confirmed a Rebecca Coon worked as a payroll secretary in the district office. Timothy Houk said he believes the district is responding appropriately and does not want the employee's actions to reflect negatively on the school district. “The school reached out. The superintendent has been more than cooperative. I don't think that this should be a negative light on the school. I believe they're going to handle it the best that they can,” said Timothy Houk. Instead of allowing the comment to take away from something she loves, Avery said she wants to use the attention she's received to encourage other children to stay involved in the outdoors and stand up to bullying. “We're the future of the outdoors, and make sure you stay kind. Don't be afraid to stand up to bullying. Just be brave,” said Avery Houk. Avery and her father said they are now looking for ways to support youth outdoor programs around Lake Shelbyville, including fishing, archery and trap shooting teams.