Monroe Education Association union President Shaerie Bruton provided public comments at the last Monroe School Board meeting, stating teachers feel bullied, intimidated and threatened, and fearful to speak up for fear of retaliation.
The union president’s comments include: “Unfortunately, this year I feel like I have to report to the board that many of our teachers are living in fear, they’re feeling intimidated, and bullied, they feel threatened, they feel like they will be retaliated on, they feel like they will be targeted if they speak up. It’s just not a good atmosphere in Monroe right now and we’re not working together, it’s a very contentious relationship, hasn’t been good for a couple of years but this is the worst it’s ever been, and I would say 20 to 23 years ago we had such great hope for this district, the people that have been here that long, such great hope, but we’re not feeling that now.”
Sadly, after hearing the “contentious relationship” described by Bruton, not a single school director inquired into what appears to be a very hostile teaching environment. However, after letting Bruton’s comments resonate, directors at the end of the meeting admonished Bruton’s concerns, stating her comments were inappropriate and disappointing. Even Superintendent Ken Hoover joined saying, “little bit of posturing going on there.”
Clearly a lack of teacher respect is occurring at many levels. Please support our teachers, attend the next school board meeting 7 p.m. Tuesday at the district office.
Audio link — youtu.be/aGhjyfE8tQU
Debra Kolrud
Former Monroe School Director 2007/11
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