Parents and teachers of the Cupertino Union School District are protesting against district leadership over what they say is a lack of transparency. The Superintendent says the district is as open as possible and is willing to do more.
South Bay parents are calling for the resignation of the Cupertino Union School District's superintendent.
More than 1,000 people have signed a petition declaring no confidence in Superintendent Wendy Gudalewicz. The petition stems from parents protesting against district leadership over what they say is a lack of transparency.
“We need more transparency, we need decisions to be careful and thought out and engaging of parents, and principals and teachers," said Gregory Anderson, a CUSD parent. “Instead, what we’re getting is stone wall, undermining marginalization, which will ultimately end up in destroying this community.”
Dozens of parents, teachers, and community members rallied in front of a school board meeting earlier this week to call for Gudalewicz's resignation, and for clarity on recent decisions made by the district.
The petition argues the superintendent and board members are working secretly to develop teacher housing at a closed school site. The group wants more engagement with the community.
Many are also still upset about the district’s decision last year to replace all staff members at West Valley Elementary School because of “tensions.”
Gudalewicz said to NBC Bay Area at the April 19 board meeting that she will not resign, and has made an effort to visit with parents at each school. She says she is committed to increasing that effort so parents and community members feel heard.
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“None of the individuals have e-mailed me,” Gudalewicz said. “I’ve asked them to come in and meet and there is no response.”
Some parents said they have tried to reach out numerous times, but are met with unsatisfying answers or no answer at all.
Other community members spoke out at the meeting in favor of the effort the district is making, and asked for the community to join together to find solutions that will benefit the children.
