Washoe County School District (WCSD) Trustee Alex Woodley is facing mounting pressure after becoming embroiled in a sexting scandal that has raised questions about his continued role on the board. The controversy began when Woodley resigned as Director of Code Enforcement for the City of Reno after it was revealed that he had sent and received sexually explicit messages using his city-issued phone. Following the investigation, which concluded on October 9, 2023, many parents and residents raised concerns at public meetings and called for Woodley’s resignation from the school board. During the WCSD board meeting, several participants expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of action against Woodley, highlighting the incongruity of holding leadership positions with such accusations hanging over them.

During the public comment period, John Eppolito, part of the child welfare group Protect Nevada Children, pushed back, pointing out the discrepancy between the administration’s handling of personal communications and the strict policies imposed on students. Highlighting the unresolved problem of adult behavior, he said: “We don’t know what the kids are doing with these devices half the time anyway… We know one of the school board members is having problems with his electronic device.” This statement drew attention to the idea of ​​integrity expected of school officials who are expected to serve as role models.