During a recent Beverly School Committee meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the safety and support of students within the Beverly Public Schools system. Two parents, Andrea Walsh and Amy Fissett, presented letters highlighting critical issues stemming from staffing shortages and inadequate support for both students and teachers.

Walsh, a parent of three, detailed alarming incidents of bullying her child faced, including physical aggression and inappropriate touching. She expressed frustration over the school’s dismissive response to these incidents, which were deemed \"normal\" for kindergarten. Walsh emphasized that the ongoing staffing issues have exacerbated the situation, particularly for students with special needs who are not receiving the necessary academic support. She urged the committee to investigate these matters thoroughly and to ensure that proper staffing and support systems are in place to create a safe learning environment.

Fissett, a parent of four and a teacher in a neighboring district, echoed concerns about the treatment of Beverly teachers during contract negotiations. She criticized the school committee for presenting skewed data that misrepresents teacher compensation compared to nearby districts, particularly Danvers. Fissett pointed out that Beverly teachers face caps on salary advancement and lack comparable benefits, leading to high turnover rates and negatively impacting student education. She called for transparency in negotiations and urged the committee to prioritize fair compensation for teachers, highlighting their dedication and the essential roles they play in students' lives.

Both parents underscored the urgent need for the school committee to address these issues to ensure the safety and educational success of all students in the Beverly Public Schools system.