Candidate Refuses to Remove Signs with Nicolet Logo

Nicolet School Board candidate Andrew Cegielski is refusing a request by district officials to take down campaign signs that showcase the high school logo.

District Administrator Rick Monroe said having campaign materials with the school's logo can be confusing and could lead some to believe that Nicolet is endorsing Cegielski, one of three candidates running for two seats on the board in the April 5 election.

School Board members Kelly Herda and Marilyn Franklin first addressed Cegielski at a special board meeting last week, advising him that he cannot use the school's logo. Monroe then sent him a letter that made the same point.

Monroe told him to remove all signs with the logo by Monday.

However, Cegielski sent out a reply Monday morning explaining that he has consulted with an attorney and believes he is within his right to have his signs posted as they are.

"As a former chief elections inspector for the City of Waukesha, I assure you that I'm familiar with election law, and the application there of," he wrote. "I'm well aware of the statue you cite.  My signs in no way implies school district endorsement; in the same way that (candidate) Joe Kassle's use of the word "Nicolet" on his yard signs don't imply endorsement."

Further in his letter to Monroe, Cegielski requests that he be provided the statute numbers that apply to his violation of misrepresentation, in addition to the Nicolet school policy stating he cannot use the logo.

"I take your letter very seriously," Cegielski wrote. "I do feel I am well within my rights of political free speech, but I'm still willing to work with you in resolving this issue."

Cegielski could not be reached for further comment.