Iris has been a dedicated member of the Aspire Public Schools community for several years, serving in multiple roles, including Instructional Aide, Teacher Resident, Special Education Teacher, and most recently, Assistant Principal at Aspire Berkley Maynard Academy. Throughout her career, Iris has worked tirelessly to support students, families, and colleagues, developing systems and practices that have positively impacted the entire school community.

In her role as Assistant Principal, Iris supported critical school functions such as instructional systems, teacher coaching, professional development, attendance initiatives, and social-emotional learning programs. Drawing from her years of experience in special education, she made accessibility for students with disabilities a key priority, going above and beyond to ensure that all students received the support they needed to thrive. Her leadership strengthened the academic environment and enhanced the well-being of students and staff, helping the school navigate challenges and transitions with care and consistency.

On Tuesday, December 3rd, the Aspire Berkley Maynard Academy staff and families received a vague message from the interim leadership team announcing Iris’s “transition” without any clear explanation. It was later revealed that Iris was let go from her position, just one day before she was set to interview for the Principal role. This abrupt decision left Iris with no opportunity for closure with her team or the families she supported, and left the community feeling confused, hurt, and concerned about the lack of transparency.

Losing Iris’s leadership will disrupt the progress and relationships she has built, causing further instability for students, teachers, and families. This sudden removal, during the holiday season and amid ongoing transitions in the 2024-25 school year, undermines the collaborative efforts to create a nurturing and effective learning environment. The loss of a leader who championed equity, particularly for our youngest scholars and students with learning differences, risks weakening trust and diminishing the sense of connection that keeps families invested in the school. This unnecessary disruption creates uncertainty at a time when consistency and support are most needed.

Iris has always prioritized equity and inclusion, particularly advocating for students with disabilities. Her leadership reflects the values Aspire claims to uphold—commitment, collaboration, and care. The decision to remove her feels misaligned with Aspire Public School’s mission to provide high-quality learning experiences for all students and support marginalized communities.

We believe Aspire Public Schools can demonstrate its commitment to equity, inclusion, and community by reinstating Iris. Doing so will help maintain the positive momentum she has fostered and rebuild trust within the community.

We, the undersigned, respectfully ask Aspire Public Schools to reconsider this decision. By reinstating Iris, Aspire can reaffirm its dedication to students, families, and equity, while ensuring the school community continues to thrive.

Please join us in calling on Aspire Public Schools to do the right thing. Stand with Iris, the students, and the families she supports. Sign this petition today and help us ensure that fairness, equity, and community care remain at the heart of our education system.