During a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong support for Landa Aponte, a principal facing scrutiny within the Peoria school district. Adetra McCoy, speaking on behalf of Aponte, shared her personal journey of moving to Arizona and becoming involved in education, highlighting Aponte's pivotal role in her professional development and the positive impact she has had on students and staff.

McCoy emphasized Aponte's leadership qualities and her commitment to fostering an inclusive environment at Cuchino Elementary School, where McCoy began her career in education. She described Aponte as a supportive figure who encouraged her to pursue a career as a school counselor, noting the challenges faced by parents and students navigating the school system.

Joanne Bowdway, a retired teacher, echoed McCoy's sentiments, criticizing the district for not allowing teachers and faculty to speak freely due to fears of retaliation. Bowdway praised Aponte's dedication and hard work, asserting that she should not be penalized for adhering to school policies and procedures.

Ashley Alcorri presented a detailed account of Aponte's achievements, including recognition from the Arizona Department of Education for improving student performance in Title 1 schools. Alcorri questioned the rationale behind the scrutiny Aponte is facing, urging the governing board to investigate the circumstances surrounding her administrative leave and the treatment she has received from human resources.

The meeting underscored a growing concern among community members regarding transparency and fairness within the district, particularly in how administrative evaluations and grievances are handled. As the board continues to address these issues, the support for Aponte remains strong among parents, teachers, and community advocates.