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Students and residents defend PCCC sociology professor after council criticism
Summary
Multiple Passaic County Community College students and residents used the council's public-comment period to defend Professor Joel Keyes after a council member said he had received complaints about the professor's classroom approach. Speakers described Keyes as an engaged, challenging instructor and called for evidence before public criticism.
A group of students and community members used the Sept. 9 public comment period to defend Passaic County Community College sociology instructor Joel Keyes after a council member said he had received complaints about the professor's classroom approach.
Three students spoke directly from the podium, praising Keyes's classes as 'challenging but rewarding' and saying his courses encourage critical thinking about politics, identity and social systems. One student said she benefited from class discussions that helped her articulate her background and community issues.
Several speakers said they had been surprised and upset by an earlier council remark that referenced unspecified parental complaints about how the professor teaches issues ''regarding us.' Students and alumni said Keyes fosters an open classroom where controversial topics are discussed and that they felt welcomed and supported.
Council reaction and context Council members replied from the dais: some reiterated that a complaint channel exists and that council members sometimes receive third-party information. Council President Mims urged residents to submit specific, documented concerns if they exist and said the council does not itself manage college personnel decisions.
Why it matters The exchange highlighted tensions when local elected bodies address issues involving independent institutions such as community colleges. Speakers said they attended the meeting specifically to defend a teacher they said had a positive impact on their education.
Ending Council members encouraged anyone with formal complaints to use the college's complaint processes and said individual council members could help connect constituents to the appropriate channels.
