Pamela Locke criticizes school budget decisions impacting education quality

The Peninsula School District Board held a regular business meeting on May 20, 2025, where budget concerns and policy discussions took center stage. The meeting featured public comments from parents, highlighting significant worries about the district's financial management and its impact on education.

Pamela Locke, a parent from KPMS and Peninsula High School, expressed deep concerns regarding the budget presented at the previous meeting. She criticized the board for what she described as a lack of transparency, pointing out inconsistencies in the budget that she believes undermine trust in the district's leadership. Locke highlighted the dismissal of competent teachers while new hires were brought in at lower wages, leading to overcrowded classrooms and overworked staff. She also noted that a significant portion of the budget is allocated to administrative salaries, suggesting that cuts should begin at the top rather than affecting classroom resources.

Following Locke's comments, the board moved on to the consent agenda, which was approved without discussion. The meeting also included the first readings of several policy changes, including the renumbering of policies related to staff recruitment and whistleblower protections. No immediate actions were taken on these policies, as they were still under review.

A notable discussion arose regarding the district's staff expression policy, which had faced criticism since its implementation. Board member David proposed suspending the policy due to misunderstandings about its intent and impact. The board agreed to suspend the policy while further discussions with labor partners and staff take place to clarify its application and ensure it aligns with the needs of the district.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for community comments on non-agenda items, allowing parents and community members to voice their concerns and suggestions. The discussions underscored ongoing tensions regarding budget management and the need for clear communication between the district and its stakeholders.