The Seattle Public Schools administration has repeatedly harmed our education.

First, they fail to provide schools with proper funding, adequate security, or enough teachers. This neglect leads to overcrowding at Madison Middle School, safety concerns at Garfield High School, and similar problems at Denny Middle School.

Second, the district’s staff consistently shows a lack of understanding about how to support students and teachers. They create schedules that conflict with student needs and make it nearly impossible for teachers to run effective classrooms. Classes are packed with 40+ students, and periods are shortened to make room for Social Emotional Learning (SEL), leaving teachers with less time to actually teach core subjects.

Third, recent scheduling changes have been poorly received, and yet the administration plans to make further changes that will divide and shorten lunch periods. Students already struggle to make it through lunch lines or access food outside the cafeteria in the limited time available. With a shorter, staggered lunch, students will lose the chance to sit with friends, eat at a reasonable pace, or use lunchtime for clubs, studying, or socializing.

In short, Seattle Public Schools’ current policies are undermining both education and student well-being.