Petition to Demand the Resignation of Superintendent Alvin Garrison

I am a concerned parent and active community member, whose son attends Holmes High School. The well-being and education of our children—our future leaders—are of my highest concern. It has become increasingly apparent that Alvin Garrison's leadership is detrimental to our students' education, safety, and long-term success. His tenure has been marked by a lack of transparency, accountability, and a pattern of questionable decision-making that cannot be ignored.

Most troubling are the multiple allegations of sexual predators being employed within the district’s schools, including Holmes High School. Rather than acting swiftly and transparently, Superintendent Garrison has repeatedly failed to communicate openly with families and stakeholders, creating an environment where trust is broken and student safety feels secondary.

The issue of safety is even more pressing in light of recent incidents involving weapons and shootings on or near school campuses. These events have created a climate of fear for students, staff, and parents alike. There has been no clear, proactive safety plan communicated by district leadership, and once again, families are left in the dark.

Additionally, students with disabilities have not been properly supported under Garrison’s leadership. There have been numerous instances of the district failing to implement and follow federally mandated Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). In one especially troubling case, the district was found to have violated civil rights protections when students with disabilities were subjected to inappropriate discipline, including physical restraint and exclusion from learning environments. These practices are unacceptable, and they reflect a deep failure in leadership and understanding of student needs.

Academically, the district is also suffering. According to the 2023–2024 Kentucky Summative Assessment (KSA) results, only 19% of high school students achieved proficient reading levels with 9% scoring distinguished in reading, and a mere 15% reached proficient math levels with 3% scoring distinguished. Despite a 15% increase in the district’s budget (Covington Independent Public Schools Budget Report, 2020), critical student-focused programs have been cut. Student dissatisfaction has risen by 20% (Holmes High School PTA, 2023), and morale among both students and staff continues to decline.

We must also acknowledge that these issues are not just statistical—they are personal. As a parent, I see firsthand the effects this leadership has had on my child and his peers. This is not just about policy. This is about people—about children—and the obligation we have to protect and empower them.

Absent immediate and meaningful change, the trajectory of Holmes High School and the broader Covington Independent School District will continue to decline. Our students deserve better. Our community deserves better.

We, the undersigned, demand the immediate resignation of Superintendent Alvin Garrison and call for an independent investigation into the mishandling of abuse allegations, failure to ensure campus safety, violations of special education law, misuse of funds, and overall leadership failures.

Let’s stand together and urge the school board to find a leader who will prioritize the safety, growth, and success of our children. Please sign this petition and let our voices be heard.

Enough is enough.