Parents challenge Beaverton School District's decision to transfer Mary Woodward students

During the March 10, 2025, regular meeting of the Tigard-Tualatin School District (TTSD) School Board, community members voiced strong concerns regarding proposed student transfers from Mary Woodward Elementary School. The discussions highlighted the emotional and academic implications of these changes, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Julie, a concerned parent, passionately advocated for the stability of students at Mary Woodward, emphasizing the detrimental effects of forced transfers on their well-being. She recounted her own family's struggles with a recent move and the emotional toll it took on her daughter, who faced the prospect of leaving her beloved school. Julie urged the board to reconsider the rushed nature of the transfer decisions, questioning whether balancing enrollment projections was worth the potential harm to student stability and trust in the district.

Fawn McCool, a licensed clinical social worker and mother, echoed these sentiments, citing alarming statistics about Oregon youth mental health. She argued that the proposed transfers would exacerbate existing issues, as many students had already faced disruptions during the pandemic. McCool stressed the importance of social relationships in academic success and warned that the plan could lead to increased dropout rates and further mental health crises among students.

Another parent, Bethany Gibson, shared her mixed feelings about the proposed changes. While she acknowledged the excitement of moving to a school closer to home, she expressed concern about the lack of consideration for the long bus rides that students currently endure. Gibson's perspective highlighted the complexities of school zoning and the need for a more thoughtful approach to boundary decisions.

The meeting underscored a critical moment for the TTSD as it navigates the delicate balance between logistical needs and the emotional well-being of its students. Community members called for a more inclusive and trauma-informed approach to decision-making, urging the board to engage with families and consider the long-term impacts of their choices.

As the district moves forward, the challenge remains to rebuild trust with families while addressing the pressing educational needs of the community. The voices of parents and advocates at this meeting reflect a broader concern for the future of student welfare in the face of necessary but difficult changes.