We, the parents, students, and community members of El Marino Language School, respectfully urge Culver City Unified School District, the School Board, and school leadership to reconsider the decision that would remove Ms. Abounassar from our school community next year.

Ms. Abounassar is a first-year teacher, but in just one year she has made an extraordinary impact. She has earned the trust, respect, and admiration of students and families, and we understand that she was recognized as Best Teacher of the Year — an exceptional achievement for any teacher, and especially for a first-year educator.

Teachers like Ms. Abounassar are not easily replaced.

Her presence has brought stability, encouragement, and inspiration to students. Children feel supported, motivated, and safe in her classroom. Families have seen the positive effect she has had not only on academic learning, but also on students’ confidence, emotional well-being, and love of school.

We understand that staffing decisions are complex and that seniority and district-wide assignments may play a role. However, we strongly believe that decisions affecting children should not be made based on seniority alone. The impact on students, classroom continuity, school stability, and educational quality must also be given serious weight.

Removing a teacher who has already proven to be so effective, trusted, and deeply valued would be a significant loss for El Marino students and families.

This is not simply a staffing change. For many children, this means losing a teacher who made them feel seen, capable, encouraged, and excited to learn.

We respectfully ask Culver City Unified School District and school leadership to explore every possible option to retain Ms. Abounassar at El Marino Language School for the upcoming school year. Whether through continued placement, reassignment within the school, an additional position, or another available solution, we ask that the district make every reasonable effort to keep this outstanding teacher in our school community.

Our request is simple:

Please listen to the voices of the students and families who have experienced Ms. Abounassar’s impact firsthand.

Please reconsider this decision.

Please keep Ms. Abounassar at El Marino Language School.

Sincerely,
Concerned parents, students, and community members of El Marino Language School