During a recent government meeting, several speakers from Ocasa College Preparatory raised urgent concerns regarding the school's facilities and student safety. The discussions highlighted significant issues affecting the daily experiences of students, particularly regarding access to basic amenities and the overall environment.

One student, JJ Johnson, described the challenges faced when using the local high school's bathrooms, which are small and often crowded. He noted safety concerns, particularly during peak times when high school students gather, creating a chaotic atmosphere that can be intimidating for younger students. Additionally, he mentioned the lack of access to lockers, forcing students to attend physical education classes in their current clothes.

Another student emphasized the need for an indoor theater for school plays, recalling a previous outdoor performance that was ruined by rain. The lack of running water in science classrooms was also highlighted, which hampers essential experiments.

Paul D'Ambrosio, the community outreach manager for Ocasa, expressed gratitude for the district's support but questioned the adequacy of resources provided to charter schools. He pointed out that students lack designated bathrooms, have to eat lunch in a parking lot, and face safety risks due to their proximity to moving vehicles. He also raised concerns about a nursing staff member being denied a private space for her needs, which he deemed disrespectful.

Veronica Brenner, a parent, shared her experience with her son, who is a member of MENSA and has faced challenges in public schooling. She praised Ocasa for its tailored educational approach but echoed the need for basic facilities like running water and proper bathrooms to support students' needs.

The meeting underscored a pressing call for improvements in school infrastructure to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for all students at Ocasa.