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Parents, students and alumni urge Benicia Unified board to reinstate beloved teacher called “Coach T”
Summary
Dozens of students, parents and former colleagues urged the Benicia Unified School Board to reinstate a long‑time teacher—referred to during public comment as “Coach T”—saying his removal has harmed students’ instruction and morale; speakers asked the board to pursue suspension or restorative options instead of termination.
Dozens of students, parents and former colleagues packed the Benicia Unified School Board meeting on Dec. 19 to urge trustees to reinstate a popular Benicia High School teacher repeatedly identified in public comment as “Coach T.” Speakers described the teacher as a 25‑year educator and mentor who provided long after‑school tutoring, extracurricular supervision and emotional support to students.
"He was a safe space for teachers as well," said Leland Simmons, recalling that Coach T's classroom was open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and functioned as a hub for students and staff. "There's no safe space for them to go anymore." (public comment)
Several parents and alumni…
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