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Students and teachers urge reinstatement of Lincoln High School music program; parents press for action on teacher absenteeism at Stevenson
Summary
Multiple students, music teachers and community members urged the board to restore instrumental music at Lincoln High School and voiced concerns about a teacher with repeated absences at Robert Louis Stevenson School; superintendent said a long‑term substitute is in place and staff are addressing personnel matters.
At the April 26 meeting, dozens of parents, students and teachers spoke during public comment about cuts to music programs and personnel problems at several sites.
Students and music teachers urged the board to reinstate instrumental music at Lincoln High School after consolidation left the school without a music program. Students emphasized music’s role in engagement and social support: "Music is a community ... Music gives me a place to escape from the everyday pressure and stress of school," one student said. Instrumental directors and former Lincoln staff described available instruments, sheet music and community partnerships and asked the district to restore programming.
Separately, parents representing Robert Louis Stevenson School reported a teacher they say was absent roughly 70% of the year and requested reassignment or removal. Superintendent Garcia said the district was aware of the issue, had put a permanent substitute in place for the remainder of the school year and would follow up through appropriate personnel channels, but noted the matter involved personnel confidentiality.
Board members acknowledged the concerns and asked staff to follow up with schools and communities to identify possible program restorations and to report back on personnel and continuity plans.
