Valley Vista parents and staff protest principal’s exit, cite poor communication during Live Oak merger

Dozens of Valley Vista parents, staff and allied union leaders told the Petaluma City Schools board on March 18 that they were shocked and upset to learn that Valley Vista Elementary principal Jamie Bushman will not continue after the school’s merger with Live Oak Charter. Speakers said the decision and the district’s communication about it have eroded trust and risk leaving the school’s most vulnerable students without needed supports.

The comments came during the board’s public comment period, which the board said it could not respond to at the meeting. Multiple speakers urged the district to explain why Bushman will not remain at Valley Vista and to ensure services for English learners and other students continue uninterrupted.

Why it matters: Valley Vista is a neighborhood public Waldorf campus with a largely Latino and English-learner population; speakers said the school’s community-supported leaders provide crucial day-to-day supports. Parents and staff warned that the transition to a combined campus with Live Oak — which speakers said will include “over 450 students” on the same site — could…