Mr. Hernandez has been a vital part of the Cleveland High School community, making a meaningful difference in the lives of students both inside and outside the classroom. Through his work as a teacher, coach, mentor, and advocate, he has helped create a school environment where students feel supported, respected, and empowered to succeed. He consistently goes above and beyond for students, building strong relationships, encouraging leadership, and pushing students to step outside their comfort zones and grow academically, socially, and personally.

In addition to his role as an educator, Mr. Hernandez is also the founder and coach of Cleveland’s Girls Flag Football team. This is the program’s first year, and he built it from the ground up by recruiting students, encouraging participation, and creating opportunities for young women to try a new sport, build confidence, and develop teamwork and leadership skills. His dedication shows his commitment to expanding opportunities for students beyond the classroom.

Mr. Hernandez has also been a strong advocate for racial equity and student representation. At a school where only about 9.2% of the student population identifies as Latino/Hispanic, his presence is especially important. Representation is not just symbolic—it directly impacts student belonging, engagement, confidence, and academic success. When students see educators who reflect their identities and understand their experiences, it strengthens their connection to school and improves outcomes for underrepresented students.

He also serves as the advisor for Cleveland’s Latino Student Union (LSU), a student led club that provides community, cultural celebration, leadership opportunities, and support for Latino students. Under his guidance, LSU has grown into a more student led organization, where student leaders such as presidents and officers are encouraged and trusted to take on real leadership roles and run the club independently rather than relying entirely on the advisor. LSU is currently the only Latino-centered student organization at Cleveland High School, making it a critical space for representation and belonging. Without Mr. Hernandez’s leadership and guidance, LSU and the leadership development it provides would be at serious risk.

The removal of Mr. Hernandez would also mean the loss of a trusted adult for many students who rely on him for guidance, encouragement, and support both in and out of the classroom. Over time, this would create major gaps in support for underrepresented students who already face barriers to representation and access within the school community. It would also risk the long term stability of programs like LSU and Girls Flag Football, which are still growing and depend on consistent mentorship to continue developing and succeeding.

Cleveland High School’s motto is “We Do Different Better,” and that commitment should include protecting educators who actively strengthen inclusion, equity, and student success. Removing Mr. Hernandez would directly contradict that value by weakening programs, reducing representation, and limiting opportunities for students.

What we want: We want Mr. Hernandez to remain at Cleveland High School and not be forced to leave. We are asking for his continued presence as a teacher, coach, and advisor who has played a major role in building student leadership, expanding opportunities, and supporting underrepresented students.

The loss of Mr. Hernandez would be a significant long-term loss for Cleveland High School. His dedication to students, commitment to racial equity, leadership in athletics, and support of student organizations have helped build programs and relationships that will take years to replace. By signing this petition, you are advocating for the continued presence of a teacher, mentor, coach, and advisor who has helped make Cleveland a more inclusive, supportive, and equitable place for all students.