I'm reaching out as a concerned student from our high school. Imagine walking into your English class, your senior year, eager to learn, prepare for college, and secure that all-important knowledge that will set the foundation for your future. Instead, you find a substitute teacher who, despite their best efforts, simply can't provide the continuity and depth of education that a fully licensed teacher can.

It's happening to us. We're about to lose a dedicated and knowledgeable teacher—one who has been pivotal in enhancing our learning experience. A teacher who understands our strengths, knows our weaknesses, and inspires us to push beyond our limits. In their place, we face the prospect of having a substitute who cannot meet the rigorous standards and academic needs that the senior year demands.

The school administration's current hiring practices seem woefully inadequate, prioritizing temporary solutions over long-term, quality education. This negligence not only threatens our academic futures but also erodes trust and morale among students who are trying to make the most of their education.

Statistics show that students who consistently learn under qualified teachers are more likely to excel, as seen in studies published by the National Center for Education Statistics. Our school must act according to these evidenced insights and commit the necessary resources to hire a licensed English teacher permanently.

Our goal is clear: We need our school's administration to prioritize the recruitment and retention of qualified teachers, specifically for pivotal classes like English and especially during critical stages such as the senior year.

Let’s urge the school board and administrators to take immediate action. They must reassess their hiring policies and work actively to support the retention of valuable educators, for the betterment of all students' futures.

Sign this petition to demand that our educational leadership provides us with the quality education we deserve. Together, let's ensure that our tomorrow starts with the best instructional support today. Your signature could make all the difference.