As a concerned parent of a cheerleader at Somerton High School, I'm deeply disturbed by the recent unjust termination of Coach Alyssa Plaza. She stood up against bullying and fought for the student's rights, showcasing the values of courage, compassion, and leadership that should be celebrated and supported in an educational setting.

Coach Plaza did exactly what we empower and encourage our educators to do - go beyond their academic role, to be protectors, mentors, and advocates for their students. Instead of ignoring a case of bullying, she intervened – a testament to her character and dedication as a mentor. Punishing her for this brave act sends a detrimental message to our students about standing up against injustice.

Enid Snider Our cheer team stands in full support of our only male cheerleader, who has faced ongoing bullying and harassment in the boys' locker room due to both his participation in cheer and his sexual orientation. Despite reporting the harassment to school administrators, no meaningful action was taken, and the bullying persisted.

Recognizing the harmful environment and in an effort to protect his safety and mental well-being, our coach made the decision to allow him to change in the girls’ locker room—but only after confirming that it was completely empty. She personally entered the locker room each time beforehand to ensure no other female students were present before granting him access. The rest of the cheer team has also confirmed that he always waited for the all-clear and only entered after receiving permission, and that he was never in the locker room while any of them were changing.

Unfortunately, these facts and statements from the other cheerleaders were disregarded by school administrators and the school board.

We also want to make it known that the complaint leading to disciplinary action against our coach came from a freshman who was previously removed from the cheer team after drugs and alcohol were found in her backpack during school hours. It is widely known among students that she expressed her intention to get our coach terminated in retaliation.

We are deeply disappointed in the lack of support shown for both our teammate and our coach—who acted only out of concern, compassion, and safety. We hope the truth is taken seriously and that those who stand up against bullying and protect their students are supported, not punished.

School bullying is a sweeping concern nationwide. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, about 20% of students ages 12-18 experienced bullying; a grim reality that devalues the educational experience and can have long-term effects on a student's wellbeing and academic performance.

In reinstating Coach Plaza, Somerton High School can send a clear message: standing against bullying is not only expected but rewarded. This action will uphold the school's commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment for every student. It's time to right this wrong and ensure that educators like Coach Plaza are recognized, not reprimanded, for their bravery and dedication.

Sign this petition to call for the reinstatement of Coach Alyssa Plaza and reform in the way we respond to actions against bullying. Stand firm against bullying. Stand for justice. Stand for Coach Plaza.