Harvey Milk Academy parents confront leadership over interim principal's absence and student neglect

The San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) meeting on July 4, 2025, highlighted significant concerns from parents and educators regarding leadership issues at Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy and the cancellation of transitional kindergarten programs.

During the meeting, parents expressed frustration over the interim principal's lack of engagement with the school community. One parent, Kevin Thaddeus Fisher Paulson, shared his struggles with obtaining necessary educational assessments for his son, who has special needs. He criticized the principal for being absent from school events and for dismissing his son's potential, stating, "She's not really there for any of us." This sentiment was echoed by Carmen Morrison, a hip hop teacher at the academy, who described the school as being in "turmoil" due to the principal's lack of presence and support.

In addition to leadership concerns, parents voiced their dissatisfaction with the cancellation of transitional kindergarten programs. Heather Murdock, a parent, urged the SFUSD to provide more transitional kindergarten locations, arguing that many families are left without viable options for their children. She emphasized the importance of accessibility and the need for case-by-case waivers for children ready for kindergarten. Other parents echoed these sentiments, sharing personal stories about their children's readiness for school and the challenges posed by the current system.

The meeting also addressed broader educational issues, including the need for quality physical education and appropriate assessment methods for young children. James Brosnahan, a father and educator, highlighted that many schools are not meeting legal requirements for physical education, which he argued is crucial for children's development.

Overall, the meeting underscored a pressing need for improved leadership at Harvey Milk Civil Rights Academy and a reevaluation of transitional kindergarten offerings within SFUSD. Parents and educators are calling for immediate action to ensure that all children receive the support and education they deserve.