To: Palo Alto Unified School District Board of Education

We, the undersigned members of the Palo Alto High School community, write regarding the administrative leave of Assistant Football Coach and PE Teacher Jason Fung following an incident on November 1, 2025.

We acknowledge the seriousness of what occurred. Coach Fung's physical contact with an opposing team's student was unacceptable and violated professional boundaries that must be maintained in all school-related settings. This was a serious lapse in judgment that cannot be excused.

However, we respectfully request consideration of Mr. Fung's overall record and context:

1. A Distinguished Record of Educational Service Mr. Fung has served PAUSD for over 20 years as a PE teacher. During this time, he has demonstrated consistent commitment to the health, safety, and development of thousands of students in his classroom. This incident represents an isolated departure from an otherwise unblemished professional record.

2. Distinction Between Educational Roles We respectfully suggest the Board consider distinguishing between Mr. Fung's roles as PE teacher and assistant football coach. His classroom teaching record remains strong and separate from the sideline incident. Removing him from coaching duties while allowing him to continue as a PE teacher could address the specific area of concern while preserving his valuable contributions to student education and wellness.

We respectfully request:

A thorough and fair investigation that considers the full scope of Mr. Fung's career and service
Consideration of proportional accountability measures, such as:

Removal from coaching duties (temporary or permanent)
Continuation in his PE teaching role with appropriate oversight
Mandatory professional development in conflict management and boundaries
Probationary period with clear expectations
Restorative practices with affected parties
A decision-making process that balances accountability for this incident with recognition of his two decades of positive impact on students

We understand the district must prioritize safety and appropriate professional conduct. We ask that the Board consider whether there is a path forward that addresses this serious incident appropriately while recognizing Mr. Fung's long record of service to our students.

We request:

A fair and transparent investigation process
Opportunity for community input to be considered
A decision that reflects both accountability and proportionality

Respectfully submitted,