As a deeply concerned parent of a child who was once a part of the Batavia City School District, my heart aches as I write this. My child, doesn't feel safe going to school anymore due to the leadership – specifically, the principal Paul Kessler, who has accumulated years of reports about mistreatment of students. Consequently, I now homeschool my child to ensure his safety and peace of mind. The once safe and nurturing environment of John Kennedy Elementary School no longer exists under the current leadership.

Several other students experience similar threats on a daily basis, and nothing substantial is being done. It's distressing to see that while the world should be empowering our next generation, our school is instead instilling fear. This environment is not conducive to learning, nor to the social and emotional development of our children.

The Batavia City School District isn't just failing some students – it's failing all of them by letting them study under a leadership that can no longer guarantee their safety or wellbeing. This isn't just about my child anymore; it's about every child in the Batavia City School District in Genesee County.

It's time for new and competent leadership. Removing Paul Kessler from his position as a principal is a step we need to take for our children's future. Inviting more compassionate, and capable leadership into our schools is the change our children deserve. Let's stand together and demand this change now. Please sign the petition for our children's safe and fruitful education.