During a recent Stamford Board of Education meeting, parents and community members expressed deep concerns regarding safety and discipline issues at Turner River Middle School (TOR). The meeting featured emotional testimonies from several parents, highlighting a perceived escalation of violence and a lack of effective communication from school administration.

Dr. Jennifer Whirley, the new president of the TOR Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), opened the discussion by acknowledging the board's previous responsiveness during the COVID-19 pandemic but shifted focus to current safety concerns. She emphasized the alarming increase in violence and the need for new discipline and cell phone policies to foster a safer school environment.

Alisa Bernstein, another parent, described the situation as \"shameful\" and \"neglectful,\" detailing incidents of threats and violence that have left both students and teachers feeling unsafe. She criticized the administration for dismissing parental concerns and failing to implement necessary changes despite ongoing issues.

Brian Ash echoed these sentiments, pointing out a breakdown of trust between parents and the principal. He urged the board to address the systemic problems at TOR, including the need for accountability and clear consequences for disruptive behavior.

Christopher Nanos expressed embarrassment over the current state of the school, likening it to a \"Lord of the Flies\" environment where students act without fear of repercussions. He called for a zero-tolerance policy for violence and a commitment to ensuring a safe learning environment for all students.

Other parents, including Natasha Angus and Christine Meek, reiterated the urgent need for effective solutions and accountability from the administration. They criticized the lack of proactive measures and the failure to communicate openly about safety issues.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of smartphone use in schools, with some parents advocating for a ban on devices to reduce distractions and improve student interactions.

As the meeting concluded, the board faced mounting pressure to take decisive action to restore safety and trust within the school community. Parents expressed their determination to hold the administration accountable and ensure that the well-being of students and teachers is prioritized moving forward.