Alachua County Teacher Placed on Leave After Bullying Allegations

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Gainesville High School history teacher Lauren Watts has been placed on administrative leave while both district and state officials investigate serious allegations of student bullying.

A parent, Dr. Crystal Marull, reported that in May 2023, her son—active in ROTC and known for his conservative views—was labeled by classmates as a “Naziphile” due to his interest in World War II history. According to her account, Watts then had the student nominated for a mock superlative, “Most Likely to Become a Dictator,” and tried to compel him to accept the award—actions Dr. Marull says caused emotional harm to her son.

In response, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier urged the school district to dismiss Watts and press for revocation of her teaching license if the claims are validated.

Shortly thereafter, Florida Education Commissioner Anastasios (Stasi) Kamoutsas filed a formal administrative complaint seeking sanctions against Watts’s certification. The complaint lists multiple possible penalties, ranging from reprimand to permanent disqualification from teaching in the state.

Alachua County Public Schools confirmed that Watts remains on leave and emphasized that details of the case are protected under Florida confidentiality statutes.

These events unfold amidst broader controversy involving the school board’s leadership. Just weeks earlier, School Board Chair Sarah Rockwell faced a public relations crisis after making a social media post about the death of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, remarking that his passing meant “one less MAGA.” Though the post was quickly deleted, it drew significant backlash and heightened scrutiny of board conduct.

The two matters have intensified community dialogue around accountability, ethics, and the district’s educational environment. No timetable has been announced for resolution of the investigation into Watts’s conduct.

#     #     #

email editor@

alachuatoday.com