Parents, teachers and community members press APS on investigations, teacher retention and elementary math

Several members of the public used the board’s public‑comment period to press the district on investigations, human‑resources processes and academic priorities.

Daniel Tafoya told the board he has repeatedly reported alleged retaliation and what he called incomplete internal investigations; he said outside agencies and advocates have become involved and urged APS to pursue fuller inquiries and to interview witnesses. Scott Shooker, an APS teacher, described a pattern of unacknowledged job applications and a lack of HR follow‑up after a short‑term position ended; he said the experience left an experienced educator questioning whether to remain in the district. Both speakers asked the board and the superintendent to ensure staff reports are investigated fully.

Former APS teacher Brian Lorenz urged the board to prioritize elementary math supports and to clarify monitoring‑report language (for example, what the report means by "specialized specialists" and "highly clear micro routines"). He cited 2025 data showing 16 APS elementary schools with single‑digit proficiency and pressed the district to outline concrete steps to improve early math instruction.

The board acknowledged the remarks and signaled that many of the concerns raised in public forum connect to the district’s agenda items that evening on monitoring and supports. Where allegations of misconduct were raised, district staff did not provide on‑the‑record investigations or findings during the public‑comment period but board members indicated existing governance and investigatory processes would apply.