Community voices opposition to district principal rotations after Minter Creek reassignment; parents ask board to pause strategy
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Summary
Parents and PTA leaders protested the sudden reassignment of Minter Creek Principal Todd Herring, arguing that rotating successful principals undermines school stability. Speakers also raised concerns about a new staff expression policy and called for improved community consultation.
A group of parents, PTA leaders and volunteers used the public-comment period at the April 22 board meeting to protest the district’s recent principal reassignments and the district’s staff-expression policy.
Speakers representing Minter Creek Elementary described the school as a small, Title I community that had rebuilt trust and morale under Principal Todd Herring. “When Ryker entered elementary school, he faced significant learning challenges… This year, thanks in large part to the supportive and strategic approach fostered by principal Herring, Ryker has successfully transitioned out of special education services,” parent Chad Schnelli said. Other parents and PTA officers said the sudden reassignment — which they said was announced without consultation — threatens hard-earned gains.
Policy and process concerns
Parents and PTA leaders also raised concerns about the district’s new staff expression policy, saying it had created a climate in which staff worry about reprisal and are reluctant to participate in community discussions. PTA leaders said more than 220 community members had signed a petition opposing the reassignment and asked the board to consider alternatives to forced rotation.
Speakers referenced outside studies on principal tenure: one commenter noted research suggesting it can take multiple years for principals to effect sustained school improvement and argued that rotating strong leaders can disrupt progress. The group urged the board to consider coaching and collaborative leadership alternatives rather than a blanket rotation policy.
Board and district context
At the meeting the group requested that the board explain the rationale and evidence for the rotation strategy and that the district pause or reconsider reassignments where community trust and momentum exist. Several speakers asked for clearer staff protections so employees can speak without fear of losing jobs.
Ending: Commenters asked the board to rebuild community trust through clearer communication, meaningful consultation and reconsideration of the district’s rotation approach. The board did not take action on the request during the meeting; the issue remains a public concern and is likely to return to board discussion.
