AUTA president urges board to address rapid TK–8 transition, requests VP at Auburn Elementary

Sarah Liebert, president of the Auburn Union Teachers Association, told the board the district’s rapid transition to TK–8 classrooms has left students and staff struggling and urged immediate steps to shore up supports at Auburn Elementary.

“Auburn Elementary needs a VP,” Liebert said, asking trustees to spend a day on site to see “what 6 through 8 is like” and to hear students’ concerns. She told the board teachers are “overwhelmed by behaviors and lack of support” and described classrooms where substitute and new staff are trying to manage shifting schedules and spaces.

Liebert cited multiple operational problems tied to the transition: inadequate playground access for younger children, science teachers being moved from specialized rooms for experiments, and custodial/athletic support gaps when the district hosts athletic events at other sites. She also reported a recent playground injury involving a TK student who “fell off the monkey bars and broke their arm in 2 places.”

Board members took no formal action during public comment but acknowledged the concerns and asked staff to follow up. President Holt and Superintendent Meyer both referenced planned site visits and future agenda items to address transportation, staffing and student supports.

The union leader closed by asking trustees to validate teachers’ and students’ experiences through direct observation and to consider staffing adjustments tied to student population and behavioral needs.