Petition for the Removal of Principal Ruth Pena from Milby High School

The Milby High School community is grieving. On December 9, 2024, we tragically lost a beloved student in a devastating railroad accident just across the street from our school. In the wake of this heartbreaking event, our principal, Ruth Pena, chose to proceed with the school day as if nothing had happened, disregarding the immense grief that enveloped our student body. Her response—utterly tone-deaf and lacking in compassion—was a clear sign of her failure to lead with the empathy and care that students deserve, especially during times of crisis.

Leadership in a school requires more than administrative competence; it demands a deep commitment to the well-being of students. A principal must provide emotional support, recognize the gravity of moments like this, and help the community process trauma. However, under Ms. Pena’s leadership, Milby High School has witnessed not only a lack of support during difficult times but also unjust treatment of students in need. This tragic incident has exposed a deeper issue: her inability to manage the school in a way that promotes the safety, respect, and emotional health of its students.

This failure is not an isolated incident. According to the National Education Association, empathetic leadership is essential to the emotional well-being of students, which in turn impacts their academic success. Yet, here at Milby, empathy has been conspicuously absent from Principal Pena’s leadership style. Her failure to acknowledge the grief of students or to offer the support needed in this time of loss is not just a poor judgment call—it is a fundamental misstep in her role as an educator and leader.

We, the students, alumni, and concerned members of the Milby High School community, demand that Principal Ruth Pena be removed from her position. Her actions, or lack thereof, demonstrate that she is not fit to lead our school, and we deserve a leader who values empathy, demonstrates competence, and prioritizes the well-being of every student.

We call upon the school board to review Ms. Pena’s conduct and take immediate action to replace her with a leader who can guide us through challenging times with the care, compassion, and professionalism we deserve. Our school deserves better. Let us ensure that this disregard for our grief and welfare is never repeated.

Join us in demanding change by signing this petition today.