Former Arygle Teacher and Coach Files Lawsuit

A former teacher and coach is suing the Argyle School District, claiming violation of his religious freedoms after the district did not renew his contract more than a year ago. The alleged violation of English teacher and football coach Jordan Cernek’s rights came after the district implemented new policy rules requiring staff to use preferred gender names and pronouns in 2022-23. Cernek violated that policy throughout the year despite verbal and written warnings, claiming his religious rights. In May 2023, the school board voted not to renew his contract with the district. Last month, the Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty (WILL) filed a federal lawsuit on behalf of Cernek for violating his Title VII rights, as well as his First Amendment right to Free Exercise of his religion under the United States Constitution and the Wisconsin Constitution. The complaint was submitted by WILL on July 3, 2024.