A resolution questioning the term “toxic masculinity” introduced by a Marin County school board member has triggered a fierce backlash, sparking intense debates across the district. The proposal, which sought to highlight the struggles young men face, was met with criticism from parents, educators, and activists, resulting in a heated public outcry.
The controversy centers on a resolution presented by Mark Koerner, the vice president of the San Rafael City Schools’ Board of Education, in early March 2025. The resolution, titled “Recognition of the Essential Role and Needs of Young Men in Society,” aimed to address mental health, emotional wellbeing, and academic challenges among young men. It also included a controversial stance on the term “toxic masculinity,” suggesting that it does not reflect the majority of men and undermines constructive dialogue on gender issues.
Controversial timing and strong reactions
Koerner, a tech investor and father of two teenage boys, defended his proposal by pointing out the lower academic achievement and higher suicide rates among young men, as reported by KQED. He argued that terms like “toxic masculinity” could have a triggering effect on young men, even if they don’t directly associate with the label. However, his resolution was met with immediate backlash, especially due to its timing during Women’s History Month. Critics, including many parents, lambasted the measure as “tone-deaf” and “insensitive,” citing the harm it could cause to ongoing conversations about gender equality.
At a school board meeting on March 10, 2025, Koerner faced vocal opposition from a crowd of over 100 parents, many of whom voiced strong objections to the resolution. Some accused Koerner of promoting divisive rhetoric, while others saw it as an unwelcome attempt to shift focus away from the challenges faced by women. One parent, quoted by KQED, expressed frustration, calling the debate an “embarrassment” and a “distraction” from more pressing issues facing the school district.
Growing discontent and reconsideration
The backlash grew so intense that Koerner withdrew the resolution hours before the scheduled vote. He later admitted that the timing could have been better and expressed regret for not consulting more educators before proposing the measure. As reported by KQED, Koerner suggested he might step aside and allow others to take up the issue if the community felt strongly about it.
Despite the overwhelming opposition, Koerner maintained that the core message of his proposal—recognizing the needs of young men—was still relevant. He clarified that his intent was never to invalidate the struggles of women but to open a broader conversation about gender dynamics. However, the district’s educators, such as Morgan Agnew, president of the San Rafael Federation of Teachers, criticized the move, pointing to existing programs already in place to support male students.
The controversy highlights the growing cultural divide over issues related to gender, masculinity, and education, with Marin County, known for its progressive values, now at the heart of this nationwide debate. As Koerner reflected, the situation underscores the difficulty of discussing gender issues in an environment charged with strong emotions and differing viewpoints.
