Several Riverside parents and community members told the Board of Education on July 24 that the district is failing to provide consistent special-education services, to adequately respond to student bullying and to communicate clearly about curricula and supports.
Steven Figueroa, who identified himself as an education advocate, told the board that his review found Title I compliance problems and said three families have faced bullying tied to disabilities. “In one case they removed their IEPs; in another case a student was struck three times in a bathroom and a video circulated on social media,” Figueroa said.
Parent Mike Espinoza said his high‑school son, previously an honor student, experienced bullying that left him depressed and seeking a school change. Espinoza said he had filed restraining orders related to cyberbullying and asked the board to approve his son’s IEP and transfer request.
Another speaker who identified herself as a mother of a child with autism described long waits for behavioral‑intervention services and said her child had been left feeling like “the problem,” despite therapy and repeated outreach to school staff. She said a 504 plan had been issued only after a delay and that mental‑health supports remain inadequate.
Other public commenters praised the opening of Casa Blanca elementary and asked the district to invite past superintendents and wider media coverage for the Aug. 5 celebration. Several speakers also raised concerns about transportation costs, property tax burdens tied to ongoing capital projects, and the availability of services at nearby schools.
Superintendent Noemí Llamas and board members acknowledged the comments. President Lee said the district would ensure the individuals who asked for contact information are reached. Dr. Tweed (board member) and other board members said they want greater transparency on safety, bathrooms and transportation plans and reiterated a commitment to follow up.
Why this matters: Parents and family members said service delays and inconsistent responses have affected students’ academic progress and well‑being. Board members pledged follow‑up and requested staff outreach and clearer communication ahead of the new school year.
Board direction and next steps: Board members said staff would contact the families who spoke, the district will circulate information about safety and bathroom procedures, and the superintendent’s office will coordinate next steps with principals and the communications team. The board did not take formal action during public comment.
Context: Comments occurred in the public‑comment period at the meeting that also included several board reports on facilities and boundary changes. Speakers alternated between appeals for case‑level follow up (individual IEP and safety concerns) and broader requests about district policy and communication.