At a recent Friday night football game on 9/18/2026 at California City High School, a troubling incident unfolded that brought to light the negligence and misconduct of Principal Katherine Notterman, Vice Principal Steven Smith, and Coach Thomas. Mika, a dedicated female student-athlete, was unjustly shoved by Assistant Coach Thomas while discussing a play with a teammate. Rather than offering support and guidance, Coach Thomas aggressively interrupted Mika, telling her that she had no reason to be in discussion with her teammate. This shocking behavior was witnessed by several teammates and parents who were present at the game.

     This incident is not isolated. It is emblematic of an environment fostered under the leadership of Principal Notterman and Vice Principal Smith, where such disrespectful and harmful behavior is tolerated.

     These administrators have failed in their responsibility to create a safe and supportive environment for students. Reports of emotional neglect, lack of accountability, and similar incidents of trauma among students are growing, yet the administration remains indifferent.

     During the same game, Notherman was seen yelling and screaming at fans, telling them to shut up and if they didn't like it, she would kick them out of the game. She was full of rage and was using threats toward the fans and overpowering parents. She also went onto the football field to block the athletes from seeing their family after a tough loss.

      Going to see your parents and family after football games is an old football tradition for many years for all high schools in America. This made the students feel like they were kidnapped and separated from their parents. After a rough week and tough game, most student -athletes need that comfort from their family; Mrs Notterman had no regard for any of the students after this tough loss. She wanted to show everyone who's in charge while the visiting team was walking off the field with their parents. The visiting players, parents, and coaches felt very bad for the California City High students, and this may cause them to never come back and play at the school after seeing the principal's outrage. Several students, parents, and coaches from the opposing team are also willing to sign this petition in support of the students in California City Community,  because this was embarrassing to the California City Community.

     Notterman also yelled loudly to force families and friends out of the waiting area for the football players. After all games for years, this is the place where parents come to walk their student athletes to the cars safely. Notterman was rude to the parents and had no remorse for her actions, and the community is fed up. During all of this, Mr Smith sat on a golf cart and didn't say a word.

     Previously, Smith had commented on suspending all black students after a senior white male student made racial comments in a senior chat about blacks. When parents spoke out about the issue, Mr Smith responded that if black students have any problems with what was said, he would suspend every black student on campus. Mr Smith has currently divided the campus with his statement, and under the California DOJ, this is a form of retaliation against students, and student rights should be protected. 

     It's crucial that school leadership prioritizes the well-being and success of all students. We cannot stand idly by while those in positions of power neglect their duties and allow abusive behavior to go unchecked. The failure of Principal Notterman and Vice Principal Smith to act in the best interests of students highlights the urgent need for change.

     We call for the immediate removal of Principal Katherine Notterman, Vice Principal Steven Smith, and Coach Thomas. It's time to install leaders who are committed to fostering a nurturing and safe educational environment. The students of California City High School deserve a leadership team that will protect them, support them, and ensure that their educational experience is both positive and empowering.

     By signing this petition, you demand accountability and champion the right of every student to learn without fear. Join us in advocating for a change that prioritizes safety and respect within our schools. Please sign and share this petition to help ensure a supportive and safe educational environment for all students at California City High School.