Parent warns of staffing instability at Summit Elementary, urges attention in upcoming staffing plan

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — During the public-comments portion of the Charlottesville City School Board's June 5 meeting, parent Brett Schneider urged the board to prioritize staffing stability and additional non-instructional supports at Summit Elementary School, citing high teacher turnover and low test scores.

Schneider, who identified himself as a parent of two rising third-graders at Summit, said the school has the highest proportion of low-income families among the elementary schools, the lowest test scores, and the highest staff turnover in the district. He told the board "7 out of 15 classroom teachers have already left the school" and asked the board to ensure every position is filled in the upcoming staffing plan.

He also asked the board to consider additional counselors and special-education staff to address behavioral needs that he said disrupt regular classroom instruction. Schneider said he supported long-term rezoning work completed by the board but asked for additional short-term attention to stabilize classroom staffing and increase non-instructional resources.

Also during public comment, Veronica (last name not recorded in the transcript) spoke briefly to thank the board and superintendent for the school year and expressed appreciation for staff.

Why it matters: Parent testimony draws attention to a concentrated staffing and achievement challenge at a single elementary school. The board and administration heard a request to prioritize filling vacancies and consider additional non-instructional supports for behavior and special education as the staffing and budget plans for the coming year are finalized.