I am Lauren Anicete, a devoted Physical Education (PE) teacher at MLK JR High School in Pittsburg Unified School District (PUSD). My relocation from MLK JR High School not only threatens my personal dedication to my community and profession, but directly affects an institution that greatly depends upon my service.

I stand ready, each morning, to educate and guide roughly a quarter of the school's population who rely on me in their pursuit of fitness and wellness. The students, indeed, are my scholars. The position I currently occupy remained vacant for more than 3 years before I assumed the role. This resulted in a chaotic cycle of short and long-term substitutes, as well as preoccupied classroom teachers sacrificing their preparation time.

PUSD was my chosen battle ground. My desire to enrich the diversity of the community where my family and I reside led me to this district and has kept my children here from kindergarten onward. My journey began as a staff member for the afterschool program in 2015, swiftly leading to promotion to program site coordinator at Foothill Elementary merely 5 months later.

However, my current role as a PE teacher at MLK JR High School is my ultimate dream. The past scholars, who benefited from the stability I offered after years of instability, are flourishing. This serves as proof that with dedicated, long-term teachers like myself, our students succeed.

To have me relocate would impact the stability and success of the school. It takes away from the diversity, dedication, and passion I bring to PUSD, affecting not just my scholars, but the entire MLK JR. JR High School community. I urge you to consider the far-reaching impacts of this decision and oppose it. Please sign this petition to stop the relocation and ensure the thriving future of our precious young minds at MLK JR. JR High School.