Jessie Thompson, a Volusia County School member who stepped down as chair, vowed all students must graduate with skills and knowledge to succeed.

After comparing Deltona High School diplomas to 'participation trophies,' a Volusia County School Board member has relinquished her role as chair.

Volusia School Board member Jessie Thompson has stepped down as chair.In an email, a district spokesperson said:Sign up for our Newsletters"Mrs. Jessie Thompson, who represents District 3 on the School Board,

In school board politics, words matter. Volusia County board member Jessie Thompson learned that lesson when a video surfaced days after her selection as chairperson, showing her making controversial negative statements about some students and a fellow board member during a summer Moms for Liberty event.

Jessie Thompson, chair of the Volusia County School Board, is stepping down from her leadership role after facing backlash for criticizing students in her district.