Detroit Public Schools Community District suspended Donya Odom, principal of Communication & Media Arts High School, with out pay during the coronavirus pandemic for making up a shortened online schedule for her students to make it easier on them during these hard times.

Despite the schedule finally being approved by the district, and MANY OTHER schools in the district adopting the schedule as well, Ms. Odom was still suspended without pay, which is extremely unfair.

The district preaches how they care about their students’ voices, as well as their student's wellness, however this action seems contrary to those ideals.  It has already been proven by the Michigan Board of Education as well as by the CDC that reducing screen time during virtual learning is  effective and necessary.  This change was made to reflect this research and to benefit students, teachers and the entire community.  Ms. Odom should be praised for this effort not penalized.

We are asking for this suspension to be rescinded immediately and allow Ms. Donya Odom to return to work on Monday November 23, 2020.