*Update to Reflect Change.org findings*

The West Ada School District should be a place where all students feel safe, valued, and included. However, recent actions taken under the leadership of Marcus Myers have demonstrated a troubling disregard for inclusivity and the well-being of students and educators.

The directive to remove “Everyone is welcome here” signage from classrooms under the guise of “neutrality” contradicts the very mission of public education—to foster a learning environment where all students feel respected and encouraged to thrive. This decision has not only undermined the trust of educators and students but has also drawn unnecessary controversy and division within our community.

“In emails shared by the district with the Idaho Statesman, Marcus Myers, the district’s chief academic officer, told Inama to remove the signs because they violated Idaho’s Dignity and Nondiscrimination in Public Education Act, as well as school policy, which requires signs to be “content neutral and conducive to a positive learning environment.”” 

Read more at: https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/education/article301972094.html#storylink=cpy

We, the undersigned, believe that Mr. Myers’ leadership no longer reflects the values of West Ada families, teachers, and students. We demand accountability for the suppression of inclusive messaging and call for superintendent Derek Bub to make a clear statement that West Ada does not support these actions and that Marcus Myers will either be resigning or terminated as Cheif Academic Officer from the West Ada School District immediately. 

Derek Bub has previously supported Marcus in removing “Everyone is welcome here” due to concerns that specific “design elements” might violate district and federal policies. In an interview the teacher described these design elements to be the different colored hands. Mr. Bub and Mr. Myers have emphasized the importance of maintaining a neutral educational environment while upholding the district’s commitment to inclusion, respect, and belonging for all students… while actively undermining that very message. 

Our second call is to the West Ada School Board of Trustees — Lori Frasure (Chair), Lucas Baclayon, Angie Redford, David Binetti, and Rene Ozuna (Vice-Chair). As parents and supporters of the students in this district, we demand that our voices be acknowledged and reflected in its decision-making. The students are the foundation of this district — without them, it would not exist.

By signing this petition, we stand in support of our teachers, students, and the right to foster a truly welcoming and supportive educational environment.

Please do not donate here. Instead forward this link to a few people, or donate to Christopher Lucky Steward (Lucky Tha DJ) to donate to Everyone is Welcome Here shirts for kids and parents. 🫶