Concerned citizen urges school board to halt Denzel Washington School principal removal

Concerns over the potential removal of the principal at the Denzel Washington School of Performing Arts dominated discussions at the Mount Vernon Board of Education meeting on April 1, 2025. A concerned citizen and taxpayer voiced strong objections, emphasizing the need for stability within the school community amid looming uncertainties regarding the federal Department of Education.

The speaker highlighted the school's pursuit of blue ribbon recognition, urging the board to reconsider any disruptive changes during a time when the district is already grappling with low enrollment, teacher shortages, and potential funding cuts. "Now is not the time to disrupt and disturb this school community," the speaker stated, calling for a united front among the board, unions, and community members to strategize for the future.

The plea underscored the urgency for the board to exercise its authority to delay any significant personnel changes until the district stabilizes. The speaker warned against hasty decisions that could exacerbate existing challenges, urging collaboration to ensure the district can continue to function effectively, especially if federal support diminishes.

As the meeting concluded, the call for unity and strategic planning resonated, leaving board members with a clear message: the community's stability and educational quality must remain a priority in uncertain times.