An 11th-grade student told Pasadena Independent School District trustees on Sept. 23 that she believes she was excluded from her HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) officer team because she takes dual-credit and early-college classes.

"I ran for treasurer of HOSA and I got it," student Ariel McGrew told the board. She said she gave the group her contact information, attempted to attend the Aug. 20 introductory meeting but arrived late because of college classes, and later learned the group had chosen a new treasurer without notifying her. "I was really scared to be in her classroom with her," McGrew said, describing a meeting with the club advisor and saying she felt pressured to resolve the matter immediately.

District administrators interrupted to note there is an ongoing administrative investigation into the matter. An administrator told McGrew, "there's an ongoing investigation including those issues of concern," and requested she not play an audio recording she had brought to the meeting. The administrator said it was appropriate for McGrew to "express to the board your concern," but that the administration is reviewing the concerns and that grievance procedures are available.

Board President Casey Phelan also clarified the process: if the student pursues a grievance and is not satisfied with the administrative outcome, the grievance can be brought before the board for consideration and action.

McGrew identified the advisor involved as "Miss McGuire" and also referenced "Miss Virk" as another staff contact she sought. The board did not take action on the matter during the meeting; trustees were notified the administration is investigating and that the formal grievance process remains available to the student.