For many of us, the Natomas Unified School District holds a special place in our hearts - it’s where our children have grown and learned for years. Unfortunately, countless students have graduated without achieving necessary reading, critical thinking, and understanding of math and science at a 12th grade level.

The numbers make it clear: 70% of Black students, 63% of Hispanic students, 42% of White students, and 45% of Asian students in Natomas Unified School District are not reading at grade level.

This shortcoming is more than a statistic - it represents a promising future denied for our youth, and it's a sign of failing leadership at the top. The good news is there's a remedy.

After five years of analysis, Natomas Black Parents United has concluded that until we replace ineffective leaders with results driven professionals, who care for the students, parents and teachers they guide, our students will languish and rarely reach their potential; our teachers will be ineffective; our parents will be overwhelmed and the educational system will not reach excellence.  The critical roles of Chief Academic Officer and Assistant Superintendent of Student and Support Services need more than good intentions and fragmented programs. These positions require competence, compassion, and clear direction.  Regrettably, the results under the current leadership do not meet our expectations, and we believe it's time for a change.

In a world where the value of education is paramount, it's unacceptable to settle for anything less than the education our children need and deserve. Research shows that without basic literacy, numeracy, and scientific understanding, young adults are ill-prepared for college, work, and life in general (National Research Council, 2012).

We urge the Natomas Unified School District Board of Trustees and our Superintendent to make a pivotal decision - do not renew the contracts for the Chief Academic Officer and Assistant Superintendent of Student and Support Services. Instead replace these individuals with competent and compassionate leaders who commit to true academic excellence, who have a proven record of success, in name and practice. To ensure this goal is reached, we also need to have parents included in the selection process.

We ask you to join us in demanding a brighter future for our kids, worthy of the potential they hold. Please sign this petition today.