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Parent tells Travis Unified board his son was traumatized; asks district to keep substitute teacher
Summary
A Scandia parent testified that a classroom teacher created a traumatic environment for his son, that complaints to school administrators appeared ineffective, and he requested the substitute teacher be allowed to remain through the school year to provide stability.
During public comment, Justin Hawkins, a first‑grade parent at Scandia, described concerns about a teacher who he said made the classroom experience traumatic for multiple students. Hawkins said parents reported the issue to the principal and to the superintendent but did not see timely corrective action until the teacher left. He said students tried to leave the classroom when they could but could not due to full classes elsewhere; parents ultimately learned the teacher had been fired.
Hawkins praised the substitute teacher, identified as Mrs. Raider, and said his son’s mood and engagement improved under the substitute. He asked the board to consider an exception to the 30‑day limit for substitute service so the substitute can remain for greater continuity and stability for the children.
Board members thanked Hawkins for coming forward, asked staff to follow up after the meeting and acknowledged that decisions about staffing and substitutes are sometimes constrained by rules. The board did not take an immediate personnel action during the meeting; staff said they would follow up with him after the meeting.
Public comment is permitted on items within the school board’s jurisdiction but does not require board action; the board may request staff to investigate or bring an item forward as appropriate.
