During a recent school board meeting at Liberty Elementary School, educators and community members expressed deep concerns over the resignation of several teachers, highlighting issues of safety, support, and leadership within the district.

Sheila DeBautista, a respected kindergarten teacher with 35 years of experience, announced her resignation, citing unsafe working conditions and excessive behavioral disruptions in the classroom. DeBautista, who was awarded Teacher of the Year for Liberty Elementary in 2024, emphasized that her decision was voluntary and not due to disciplinary actions. She called for a reflection on the current policies affecting the learning environment, particularly for young students experiencing their first year of education.

The meeting also featured passionate testimonies from other educators, including Jenna Williams and Wendy Merkel, who criticized the school board's leadership and alleged a culture of fear among staff. Williams accused board members of prioritizing political power over student safety, while Merkel detailed her own resignation, claiming a hostile work environment and a lack of support from the administration.

Concerns were raised about the district's retention rates, with former employee Carrie Jones challenging the board's claims of an 87% retention rate, asserting that the actual numbers are significantly lower. She urged the board to provide transparency regarding staff turnover and to prioritize the well-being of students over administrative image.

The meeting underscored a growing discontent among teachers and parents regarding the district's leadership and its impact on educational quality and safety. As the community grapples with these issues, the call for accountability and change within the school board remains urgent.