Facing a backlash

Critics accused Leonardi of taking students to a “gay bar.” Many posts included false information, such as a photo of a sexually suggestive sign that no longer exists, and a photo of a double entendre-filled menu that children never saw. They said she should be removed, arrested or even killed. The co-owner of Rosie’s reported receiving numerous vile messages, some containing veiled threats of harm.

The backlash is outrageous, school supporters say.

Rosie’s “is a community institution thriving in the heart of a city with one of the U.S.’s largest LGBTQ populations,” said Joe Saunders, senior political director for Equality Florida, which advocates for LGBTQ rights. “Characterizing a lunch field trip by Wilton Manors Elementary School students to this landmark neighborhood restaurant as if it was a trip to a nightclub is an ugly appeal to anti-LGBTQ fear and bigotry.”

Rosie’s co-owner John Zieba said Thursday, “We got some really nasty calls and emails, but today, almost every call is so positive.”

Complaints about the field trip led to a visit from a state Department of Education official Friday to see if an investigation is warranted. The office wouldn’t comment on the outcomes, but two attendees said it went well and they’re optimistic.

The investigator “did indicate he did not see any apparent violations of state law or school board policy,” said Lisa Maxwell, who represents Principal Melissa Holtz through the Broward Principals’ and Assistants’ Association.

She said Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton, who also met with the investigator, “did a phenomenal job” explaining what the field trip was about.

“The whole thing was very innocent,” Newton said after the meeting. “They were there to learn what is life like when you do something on your own, and for what this turned into for these vile people is just disgraceful. They did exactly what they should do. Teach them about life and not just the books.”