I am a parent. I am a survivor. As a concerned mother of three in the Randolph County School System, the safety of not just my children, but all the children studying there is of paramount importance to me. Yet, I have been left deeply troubled by the current Superintendent, Dr. Stephen Gainey, whose actions — or lack thereof — raise serious questions about the safety of our students. Allegations have surfaced over the years against a teacher for making inappropriate sexual comments to students, intruding into the girls locker room, and teachers even physically abusing autistic pupils. There have also been cases of children sexually assaulting other students.

Despite these grave allegations, Dr. Gainey's response has been that there isn't any evidence against the accused teachers and as for the students he says the matter is taken care of they are to young to worry about it. This passive dismissal of such serious accusations is unacceptable.

These incidents point to a culture of abuse and denial, all under the watch of Dr. Gainey. This is not the environment we want for our children. It brings back my own tragic memories as a survivor, and I cannot — will not — allow my children or any others to become victims under his negligent administration.

We demand that Dr. Stephen Gainey amd anyone else on the Randolph County School Board be removed from his and their positions  to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the students in our community — our children deserve better. We plead with the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations and to ensure a safer learning environment for all students.

Please, sign this petition to help hold Dr. Gainey and the rest of the Randolph County School Board of Education accountable for his and thier negligence while demonstrating your committed support for our children's safety.