During the Board of Education meeting on February 26, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding the support and training of staff within the Bayshore School District. Community members emphasized the need for enhanced educational resources for paraprofessionals, security personnel, and nurses, highlighting their critical roles in maintaining a safe and effective learning environment.

A long-serving library trustee expressed the importance of board members taking responsibility for their decisions, particularly in relation to ongoing legal matters affecting victims of brutality. This trustee urged the board to consider the emotional toll that court proceedings have on victims and their families, advocating for a compassionate approach in their decision-making processes.

Lisa Kennedy, a lifelong Bayshore resident and educator, echoed these sentiments, stressing the necessity of providing adequate training for staff who interact with students daily. She pointed out that many issues arise during unstructured times, such as lunch and recess, where paraprofessionals are often the primary staff present. Kennedy praised recent initiatives to offer training for paraprofessionals but called for a more comprehensive approach to staff education, including basic orientation and behavioral management strategies.

Kennedy also suggested that engaging staff in discussions about their needs could lead to better outcomes for students. By equipping staff with the necessary skills and knowledge, she argued, the district could foster a more supportive environment for both educators and students, ultimately benefiting the entire community.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a collective commitment to improving educational practices and support systems within the Bayshore School District, with a clear call to action for board members to prioritize staff training and community well-being in their future decisions.