Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Comments topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Parents and student press East Penn board on Lincoln Elementary leadership and club-advising paperwork
Summary
A Lincoln Elementary parent accused the school’s new principal of discouraging school spirit and removing student artwork; an Emmaus High School student asked the board to simplify the adviser paperwork that is blocking student clubs. Board members said administrators will follow up with parents and building leaders.
At the Oct. 14 meeting of the Eastern School District Board of School Directors, two public commenters urged the board to address school culture and barriers to student activities.
Becky Clemens, who said she has been a parent at Lincoln Elementary since 2017, told the board that "since the arrival of the new principal, missus Rebecca Champion, our school spirit and joy have withered." Clemens alleged the principal "discourages fun and school spirit," pointed to the removal of student artwork from hallways and said teachers are "already feeling burned out." She asked the board to "please take the time to look into why our youngest learners are being denied the learning environment they deserve." (Public comment rules announced by the chair require speakers to avoid confidential information and profanity.)
Luke Song, a student at Emmaus High School, said he has been trying to start a filmmaking club since last year but cannot find an adviser because teachers face an onerous paperwork process. "What I need from you is I just need the process for running the club to be easier for teachers," Song said. He also urged another student government election after students said they were dissatisfied with current officers.
Board members responded that administrators appreciate the feedback and will follow up. Dr. Povolaitis and Dr. Campbell said they "did meet with the parent last week," and the building principal "has offered as well to meet with the parent and any parents of our community who have concerns." Board members encouraged community involvement and suggested exploring community volunteers as possible club advisers.
The board did not take action on either public comment during the meeting; members directed administrators to continue to engage with building staff and families.
