During a recent school board meeting in Antioch, heated discussions erupted over a proposed censure of Board President Hernandez, highlighting deep divisions within the district regarding leadership and accountability.

Several constituents voiced their concerns, emphasizing the pressing academic challenges facing the district, particularly the alarming statistic that only two out of ten third graders are reading at grade level. One speaker expressed dismay that the board was focusing on censure rather than addressing these critical educational issues. \"We have bigger fish to fry here,\" they stated, urging board members to prioritize the needs of students over internal conflicts.

Frances Green, another community member, lamented the treatment of black and brown students in the district, calling for board members to reconsider their actions and focus on the well-being of the students. \"You need to think about what you're doing because black and brown students are hurting,\" she said, imploring the board to act in the community's best interest.

Devin Williams echoed these sentiments, criticizing the board for what he described as a bullying culture that contradicts their stated mission to combat bullying. He urged board members to support Hernandez, who he believes is advocating for necessary changes within the district. \"What happened to accountability?\" he asked, challenging the board to act in the community's interest.

The discussion turned to the specifics of the censure resolution, which accused Hernandez of violating board policies and procedures. Trustee Lewis acknowledged the complexity of the situation, emphasizing the importance of following established processes. However, other trustees, including Trustee Lathan, countered that the censure was an attempt to silence those who speak out against injustices within the district.

The meeting underscored a broader struggle within the Antioch School District, as community members and board members grapple with issues of leadership, accountability, and the urgent need for educational reform. As the board deliberates on the censure, the community remains focused on the critical task of improving educational outcomes for its students.