Professor Romeo Carey is an exceptional teacher, someone who has consistently prioritized the needs and growth of his students above anything else. As a teacher for BHUSD, he has shown extraordinary dedication and has made an irreplaceable contribution to Beverly Hills' educational community. However, he has been placed on an indefinite administrative leave, with no sign of returning which has caused an undeniable gap in the quality of education being provided to our students.

Professor Carey spoke during a Board Meeting’s public comment on Oct. 8 stating that the administration is trying to censor the journalism class, and he will not allow it. A little over a month later, he allowed his students to air a segment calling out the aggressive and inappropriate behavior of an administrator, who had a prior formal complaint filed against him from his staff due to abusive behavior. Professor Carey was then placed on administrative leave with no word to students and parents, with no plans to bring him back 6 weeks later. This is a violation of Educational Code 48907. This is just one example of many other violations that this school administration and Board are currently being sued for.

It is crucial to highlight that Professor Carey's absence has negatively impacted the learning experience of his students and colleagues. KBEV's broadcasting program, under Carey's leadership, has been an integral part of BHUSD for decades, nurturing students' talents and preparing them for their future career paths. The fact that such a treasured and influential educator is being kept away from his rightful role is alarming.

KBEV Media Students have been Ranked #1 by SkillsUSA in the State of California for over a decade under the leadership of Professor Carey. The SkillsUSA Championship Competition showcases the best Career and Technical Education students in the nation. Over the last decade, BHHS students have competed on local, state and national levels. Last year, for the first time in 10 years of competition, the KBEV team won second place nationally under the supervision of Professor Carey. Congressman Ted Lieu made an honorable mention of this achievement in the United States House of Representatives.

Restoring Professor Carey to his previous position is fundamentally important for the Beverly Hills education system. We, therefore, urge the Beverly Hills Unified School District to end Professor Carey’s administrative leave effective immediately, recognizing his indispensable role as the media director and KBEV teacher.

Please sign this petition to support the reinstatement of Professor Romeo Carey and to maintain the quality of education in our community.