Gaffney Lane parents demand accountability and emotional safety amid principal controversy

Concerns over student safety and emotional well-being dominated the Oregon City School District's Regular Session Meeting on December 9, 2024, as parents voiced their fears regarding the potential return of a previous principal linked to troubling incidents at Gaffney Lane Elementary.

One mother, addressing the board, expressed her deep distress over the message being sent to students and families if the former principal were reinstated. "What kind of message does this send to children who are victims?" she questioned, highlighting her son's ongoing trauma from past experiences at the school. She criticized the district's lack of communication and support during this difficult time, stating that her interactions with the superintendent had been minimal and unsatisfactory.

Another parent, Samantha Ingoletta, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the erosion of trust within the school community. She raised concerns about both the physical and emotional safety of students under the previous administration, noting a decline in morale among staff and students. Ingoletta praised the interim principal for fostering a more supportive environment but insisted that the board must ensure the former principal does not return.

Kayla King, also a parent at Gaffney Lane, added to the discussion by highlighting the need for better training for staff on neurodiversity and emotional support practices. She expressed disappointment over the lack of transparency during the ongoing investigation into the previous principal's conduct, which she felt undermined the trust necessary for a safe learning environment.

The parents' testimonies underscored a collective demand for accountability and a commitment to prioritizing student safety and emotional health. As the meeting concluded, the board was urged to take decisive action to reassure families that their children could attend school without fear of harm or emotional distress. The outcome of these discussions remains to be seen, but the community's call for change is clear.