Students and parents defend Granite Bay teachers at Roseville school board meeting

Dozens of students, parents and former classroom teachers told the Roseville Joint Union High School District board on April 8 that Granite Bay High School educators should not be vilified after a recent social‑media incident.

Board members opened public comment by reminding the audience the Brown Act prevents the board from discussing non‑agendized personnel matters at a public meeting. Trustee Mr. Deloro, who spoke earlier about classroom practice and the role of teachers, urged the community to allow the district’s investigative and personnel processes to proceed and to treat staff with civility.

Student speakers described classroom practices they said encourage independent thinking. “A balanced, well‑rounded worldview is one that allows a person to factor in other people’s perspectives,” said Jenna, a Granite Bay sophomore. Another student, Cammy Catella, told the board that Granite Bay teachers “have consistently encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone” and credited social‑science courses with preparing her for college civic engagement.

Parents and former teachers also spoke in support. Colleen Jenkins said the district’s faculty “have high standards and have provided an excellent education” for her children. A former Granite Bay teacher who left the profession in 2021 said historically factual instruction is not controversial and urged the community to stand with educators.

Speakers repeatedly cautioned against social‑media posts taken out of context. One parent urged the board to emphasize dialogue over online attacks and to protect teachers from mischaracterizations that can drive educators out of the profession.

Superintendent communications earlier in the meeting noted administrators had completed an investigation and due‑process steps in response to the incident; the superintendent and principals said follow‑up and training would continue. The board did not take any personnel action at the meeting and said it would not discuss investigative details in public because the matter was not on the agenda.

The public comment period also included requests that the district provide clear avenues for parents and staff to pursue complaints and appeals. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Dobson was identified in the meeting as a contact for families with questions about due process and appeal opportunities.

The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled April 22, when several informational items on the April 8 agenda will return for action.