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Parents and community members press CUSD board on student safety, handling of abuse allegations
Summary
Three public commenters accused district leaders of failing to protect students and called for stronger accountability, transparency and use of outside experts; board members listened but took no immediate policy action that evening.
During the public comment portion of the Chandler Unified School District governing board meeting, three speakers urged the board to take stronger action on student safety and on the district’s response to allegations of sexual misconduct and campus violence.
Katie McPherson, who identified herself as a former campus employee, told the board she reported multiple student complaints about alleged harm and said she believed district response had been insufficient. “I am respectfully asking you stop hiring lawyers and you start hiring experts,” McPherson said, urging the superintendent to act before his final year in the role.
Bridget Vega told the board she had raised concerns about violent incidents, threats, hazing and a separate allegation involving a former student. “You were trusted to protect this community, especially our children. When it mattered most, you protected your image and power instead,” Vega said. She called for a superintendent with “courage” and “transparency.”
Lou Anne Savolt spoke on patriotism and curriculum content, urging schools to teach American history and civics; her remarks also included personal views about national politics.
Board members thanked the speakers and acknowledged receipt of the comments. No formal board action was taken during the public comment period; speakers requested specific investigations and changes in practice. Several trustees asked staff and administrators about existing reporting processes, confidentiality of student records and how families are notified when concerns arise. Administrators reiterated legal limits on discussion of personnel or active investigations and said student records are confidential and handled consistent with statute and district policy.
The meeting transcript shows community concerns centered on the timeliness of district investigations, whether district leaders reported incidents to law enforcement and state agencies, and whether parents and students felt heard. The board did not vote on the matters raised during public comment and indicated that any specific personnel or investigative matters would need to be handled through appropriate channels outside the open‑comment portion of the meeting.
