My name is Mercedez and I am a student at Shadow Ridge High School, where I've dedicated countless hours to my passion for dance. Recently, my efforts have been undermined by our current dance teacher, who prefers to call herself a 'coach.' This isn't just a personal grievance, it's a shared sentiment among my classmates and friends who have had the misfortune of experiencing her lack of empathy and professionalism firsthand.

Time and again, she proves to be a roadblock to our progress, judging us severely and failing to provide the constructive guidance we desperately need. I've witnessed many students cry in her class (including myself)—seeking support which they never receive. Instead of nurturing our talents, she deflects any criticism and resorts to being petty, blaming others for her mistakes. It's not just about a single performance; it’s about how she's continually causing distress and chaos in a space that is supposed to be encouraging and educational.

A good teacher should be a mentor and a guide. Not a teacher who tells their student of many consecutive years that her hard work is “not that deep.”They should inspire their students, not make them feel inferior or worthless. Unfortunately, our dance teacher at Shadow Ridge High School does none of this. We need someone who listens, who takes accountability, and who genuinely cares about their students' growth—qualities that this teacher is glaringly missing.

This toxic environment is severely impacting students' learning experiences, and it’s time for a change. I am calling on the administration of Shadow Ridge High School to take immediate action by replacing the dance teacher with someone who is competent, compassionate, and dedicated to fostering an environment of growth and encouragement. Me and many others feel as though she can find her “passion” else where many students have already been affected. 

Please sign this petition to demand accountability and ensure that current