During a recent meeting at Birmingham Community Charter High School, educators and staff highlighted significant achievements in student certification and expressed concerns regarding staff compensation and student discipline policies.

Dr. William Epps, a computer science teacher, reported that he and a colleague certified 91 students in Microsoft applications, claiming that Birmingham is one of the few public institutions to offer such certifications. He emphasized the importance of practical skills over traditional college degrees, noting that industry partners are seeking candidates who can demonstrate proficiency in coding and software applications. Epps shared a success story of a former student who secured a job using her Excel skills, underscoring the real-world impact of their programs.

Epps also advocated for a no-phone policy in classrooms, arguing that it would enhance student focus and reduce distractions. He compared allowing students to carry phones to letting a child handle a dangerous object, urging administrators to take action to improve the learning environment.

Counselor Judith expressed her appreciation for the supportive community at Birmingham but lamented the lack of adequate compensation for staff, despite their hard work and dedication. She called for recognition of the staff's contributions, which she believes are crucial to the school's success.

Richard Defranzo, representing the United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA), provided an update on ongoing contract negotiations, highlighting the need for better compensation to retain quality educators. He noted that the current contract is set to expire soon and emphasized the importance of acknowledging the hard work of teachers and staff.

The meeting also included discussions about upcoming elections for community board members and the need for representation from classified staff. The board confirmed four community representatives for two-year terms, ensuring continued involvement from various stakeholders in the school's governance.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commitment of Birmingham's educators to student success while addressing critical issues related to staff morale and compensation, as well as the need for effective classroom management policies.