We are a community deeply hurt and frustrated by the actions of Dr. Juliette Pennyman, the current superintendent of the Hudson City School District. A culture of degradation and disrespect has been revealed, with teachers, staff, and students at its receiving end. Employees are shamed, dismissed when they approach with a legitimate concern, and ultimately enveloped in an atmosphere of mistrust.

Opening day of the 2024-25 school year consisted of teachers and staff members being told by Dr. Pennyman how terrible they are at their jobs for three hours straight. Board of Education meetings involved teachers getting interrogated and spoken to in disgusting manners, along with condescending facial expressions by Dr. Pennyman. 

One incident involved Dr. Pennyman accusing an employee of following her simply because they arrived at their home, a heavily-populated apartment complex, at the same time as her. This manufactured paranoia is not the behavior expected or required from a person of her position, and it fuels a hostile environment depriving the district employees of respectful and fair treatment.

Dr. Pennyman has also accused teachers of intentionally keeping minority students out of AP classes, while over 50% of AP classes are minority students. 

She also went ahead and terminated several long term caucasian employees simply for being caucasian, claiming she “needed a more diverse staff.” 

Furthermore, allegations about Dr. Pennyman's credibility have been raised. Accusations pointing to her fabricating data and showing no sincere interest in getting to know the students or teachers devalue the essence of her role: to serve as an effective leader and advocate for both the district's employees and students.

Above these serious claims, leadership qualities are noticeably absent. A school district's superintendent should be a guiding light, setting examples of integrity, humility, and dedication. Disappointingly, this is not the case with Dr. Pennyman.

It's time to stand up for our educators, staff, and students. We demand the resignation of Dr. Juliette Pennyman. The Hudson CSD community deserves an uplifting environment where the voices of the employees are respected and valued. Let's strive for a district leadership that truly cares for its community. Your signature on this petition greatly contributes to this cause.