St. Helens parents demand accountability from school board on safety and leadership issues

In a tense and emotionally charged meeting on December 11, 2024, the St. Helens School District Board faced a barrage of concerns from parents and community members regarding student safety and the hiring practices within the district. The atmosphere was thick with urgency as residents voiced their frustrations, demanding accountability and transparency from school officials.

Gina Stotts, a concerned parent, opened the floor with pointed questions about the district's background checks on staff. She expressed disbelief that parents like herself had to conduct their own investigations into school personnel, questioning the integrity of the district's leadership. Stotts highlighted the troubling history of some staff members, including the Chief Financial Officer, and raised concerns about trust in the administration, particularly in light of past issues in Vancouver schools.

The meeting continued with representatives from the Columbia County Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Advisory Council, who emphasized the need for improved support for students with disabilities. They called for collaboration with the district to enhance special education programs, stressing that many parents feel their children's needs are not being met. The council's plea underscored the importance of a robust educational system that accommodates all students, particularly those who cannot communicate their needs.

Laura Moore, another parent, brought attention to serious safety concerns involving a staff member facing multiple charges, including assault. She questioned the appropriateness of designating the accused's office as a "safe space" for students, arguing that it was retraumatizing for victims. Moore also recounted alarming incidents in the girls' locker room, where male individuals entered while students were changing, raising further questions about the district's commitment to student safety.

The meeting reached a boiling point when Lisonbee Dubuque, the principal of McBride Elementary, was criticized for her handling of bullying and neglect within the special education program. Parents expressed outrage over reports of inadequate supervision and care for vulnerable students, demanding immediate action from the board. The community's frustration was palpable as they called for a change in leadership and a reevaluation of hiring practices to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the St. Helens School District faces significant challenges ahead. The voices of concerned parents and community members echoed a collective demand for accountability, transparency, and a renewed commitment to protecting the children in their care. The board's response to these pressing issues will be crucial in restoring trust and ensuring a safe educational environment for all students.