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Mattoon School Employee Placed on Leave Over Social Media Comment

Free News Reader  ·  September 9, 2026

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Mattoon School Employee Placed on Leave Over Social Media Comment

  • A Mattoon Community Unit School District #2 employee was placed on administrative leave Friday, September 4, 2026, following a social media comment that caused significant community concern.
  • The employee, identified as Rebecca Coon, a Payroll and Insurance Secretary for the district, allegedly posted a comment wishing death upon an 11-year-old girl who shared a photo of doves harvested during a hunting trip.

Full Summary — powered by AI

Mattoon, IL – An employee of Mattoon Community Unit School District #2 has been placed on administrative leave after a controversial social media comment. The district announced it took immediate action on Friday, September 4, 2026, upon learning of the comment.

The comment in question was reportedly made on a Facebook post by an 11-year-old girl who had shared a photo from a family dove hunting trip. According to the girl’s father, a district staff member, identified as Rebecca Coon, a Payroll and Insurance Secretary, responded to the post with a message stating, “I hope you die soon little girl.”

Superintendent Tim Condron confirmed the district’s awareness of the situation and stated that the employee’s actions were inconsistent with the values, standards, and expectations of Mattoon schools. Due to laws regarding personnel matters, the district has not released further details about the individual or the ongoing investigation. The district emphasized its commitment to maintaining a safe and professional environment for all students and staff. Coon has since made her Facebook profile private.