Students rally to save beloved librarian Miss Garcia from dismissal

During the recent Houston Independent School District (HISD) School Board meeting held on June 12, 2025, a significant focus emerged around the potential firing of beloved school librarians, particularly Miss Garcia, which sparked passionate pleas from students advocating for their educators.

Hendrick Anderson, a fifth grader, was among the first to voice his concerns, passionately defending Miss Garcia's contributions to his learning experience. He highlighted her role in fostering a love for reading and expressed dismay at the idea of her dismissal due to health-related absences. "Why would you fire her for getting sick? It's not even her fault," he stated, emphasizing the importance of her presence in the library and the positive impact she has had on students.

Mary Ann Anderson echoed similar sentiments, noting that Miss Garcia's absence would leave a void in the school community. She described the excitement among her classmates on library days and the essential role Miss Garcia plays in making the school environment engaging. "Without Miss Garcia, we wouldn't have book fairs or kids reading books," she asserted, underscoring the librarian's integral role in promoting literacy and joy in learning.

The meeting also featured testimonies from students at West Side High School, where Lila Gandhi and others expressed their concerns over the potential firing of their librarian, Miss Korean Rosa. They highlighted her dedication to extracurricular activities and her unwavering support for students, arguing that her contributions extend far beyond her role as a librarian. "It is completely unjust to fire this teacher who dedicates all of her weekends," Gandhi stated, reflecting a broader sentiment of loyalty and appreciation for educators who invest in their students' success.

In addition to the discussions surrounding librarians, students raised concerns about broader issues affecting their schools, including inadequate facilities and mismanagement of district resources. Ileana Gottlieb shared her frustrations about malfunctioning air conditioning and heating systems, which hindered learning conditions. She called for a budget that prioritizes student needs over administrative expenses, highlighting a growing concern among students regarding the management of district funds.

The meeting concluded with a clear message from students: the importance of retaining dedicated educators and addressing systemic issues within the district. As the board considers the future of Miss Garcia and other educators, the voices of students serve as a powerful reminder of the profound impact teachers have on their lives and the urgent need for equitable support across all schools in the district. The outcome of these discussions will likely shape the educational landscape in HISD, as students continue to advocate for their rights and the quality of their education.