Teachers demand fair contracts and safety policies during Buckeye Valley meeting

In a packed Buckeye Valley School District Board of Education meeting, educators and community members passionately voiced their concerns about the challenges facing teachers and the urgent need for policy updates. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as teachers shared personal stories of dedication and the struggles they face in increasingly complex classrooms.

One teacher, Jen Barnett, highlighted the growing risks educators encounter daily, emphasizing that when teachers feel unsafe, it disrupts the entire learning environment. She called for updated assault leave language in contracts, arguing that the well-being of teachers directly impacts students. "When teachers don't matter, your children don't matter either," she stated, urging the board to prioritize the safety and support of educators.

Another teacher echoed these sentiments, pointing out a troubling disconnect in the district's priorities. While the number of teachers and support staff has remained stable, the number of administrators has nearly doubled. This shift, they argued, reflects a choice to prioritize leadership over frontline educators, leaving teachers feeling undervalued and overburdened.

Community member Margaret Long also weighed in, expressing her support for teachers and the need for competitive wages. She noted that the recent failure of a levy was not a rejection of education but a response to concerns about management and resource allocation. Long emphasized that as the district grows, it must ensure that teachers are adequately compensated and supported to maintain the high standards of education that families expect.

The meeting underscored a collective call for change, with educators and parents alike urging the board to listen and act. As the district navigates these challenges, the voices of those on the front lines serve as a poignant reminder of the vital role teachers play in shaping the future of their students and the community. The discussions at this meeting may well set the stage for significant policy changes aimed at fostering a more supportive environment for both educators and students in Buckeye Valley.