Keep Mr. Lefer at Ridgewood High School

Recent signers:
Erica Cohen and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Mr. Lefer is more than just a teacher to us at Ridgewood High School. His dedication, passion, and support have made a profound impact on countless students, including myself. Unfortunately, due to budget cuts, Mr. Lefer is facing the possibility of being laid off, a fate he does not deserve after leaving a secure tenure to join our Ridgewood community.

For many students, Mr. Lefer's classes have been a turning point, where learning became inspiring and engaging. His innovative teaching methods and genuine care for student success have helped students excel academically and develop personal growth. Removing a teacher of his caliber would be a disservice not only to the current students but also to future generations that will walk through Ridgewood's doors.

A survey conducted by the Educational Research Institute showed that teachers who remain in schools for more extended periods are linked to better student outcomes. Our school, situated in Ridgewood, New Jersey, already faces challenges with continuity and student-teacher relationships, an issue that will only intensify if essential staff like Mr. Lefer are let go.

We understand the constraints of the budget, but we believe there are ways to prioritize keeping irreplaceable faculty members like Mr. Lefer. We propose reallocating resources or exploring alternative funding options to ensure our students continue receiving a quality education.

By signing this petition, you are supporting not only Mr. Lefer but also the educational standards of Ridgewood High School. Together, we can make a statement about the value of dedicated educators in our community.

avatar of the starter
Sal ChasePetition Starter

311

Recent signers:
Erica Cohen and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Mr. Lefer is more than just a teacher to us at Ridgewood High School. His dedication, passion, and support have made a profound impact on countless students, including myself. Unfortunately, due to budget cuts, Mr. Lefer is facing the possibility of being laid off, a fate he does not deserve after leaving a secure tenure to join our Ridgewood community.

For many students, Mr. Lefer's classes have been a turning point, where learning became inspiring and engaging. His innovative teaching methods and genuine care for student success have helped students excel academically and develop personal growth. Removing a teacher of his caliber would be a disservice not only to the current students but also to future generations that will walk through Ridgewood's doors.

A survey conducted by the Educational Research Institute showed that teachers who remain in schools for more extended periods are linked to better student outcomes. Our school, situated in Ridgewood, New Jersey, already faces challenges with continuity and student-teacher relationships, an issue that will only intensify if essential staff like Mr. Lefer are let go.

We understand the constraints of the budget, but we believe there are ways to prioritize keeping irreplaceable faculty members like Mr. Lefer. We propose reallocating resources or exploring alternative funding options to ensure our students continue receiving a quality education.

By signing this petition, you are supporting not only Mr. Lefer but also the educational standards of Ridgewood High School. Together, we can make a statement about the value of dedicated educators in our community.

avatar of the starter
Sal ChasePetition Starter

The Decision Makers

Ridgewood Village School Board
3 Members
Saurabh Dani
Ridgewood Village School Board
Mary Handy
Ridgewood Village School Board
Sheila Brogan
Ridgewood Village School Board
Mark Schwarz
Mark Schwarz
Superintendent, Ridgewood Public Schools
Muhammad Mahmoud
Muhammad Mahmoud
Ridgewood Village School Board
Mary Micale
Mary Micale
Ridgewood Village School Board
Jeffrey Nyhuis
Jeffrey Nyhuis
Principal, Ridgewood High School

Supporter Voices

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Petition created on April 19, 2026