Parents and municipal leaders press Proviso 209 for stronger special-education staffing and action on racial incidents

At the start of the public-comment period Nov. 12, Leticia Jones read a prepared letter from Mayor Katrina Thompson urging the board to approve the proposed 2.9% levy so the district can maintain staffing, special-education services, safety, transportation and technology.

Jones said the mayor appreciates the opportunity to engage with district leaders and urged the board to align actions with the district s stated commitment to put students first.

Later, parent Aya Adebajo told the board she has experienced repeated incidents of racial animosity directed at her children, said she does not have confidence that administration has adequately addressed those incidents, and asked the district to pursue programs such as Courageous Conversations to create structured dialogue. She urged the board and principals to increase Black and Latino teacher representation and to provide more responsive action when families raise concerns.

The parent said she had discussed possible interventions with Dr. Sanchez and requested that the board and administration follow through on concrete steps. Her remarks framed the public feedback session and were acknowledged by several trustees and administrators who said they would continue working with principals and community partners to address equity and climate.

No formal action was taken during public comment, but the comments were included in the meeting record and referenced later in board discussion about equity and supports.