The students of Windermere High School, especially those enrolled in AP Computer Science A, are being severely impacted by the school’s decision to place Mr. Stelly, a former biology teacher, in charge of a computer science course—an area completely unrelated to his expertise. This mismatch has resulted in widespread frustration, as his lack of knowledge and training in computer science leaves students unsupported, unprepared, and increasingly disheartened. His teaching, or lack thereof, has made it nearly impossible for students to succeed in this demanding AP course. As a sophomore taking four AP classes, maintaining a 5.0 weighted GPA, volunteering over 200 hours, interning at a major software company, and preparing for dual enrollment and the SAT, I can confidently say his failures as an instructor have hindered my progress. His inability to teach the curriculum is not only affecting my grades but also those of the approximately 90% of his students who agree that his teaching methods—or lack thereof—are unacceptable.

        If nothing is done, the students in Mr. Stelly’s classes will continue to suffer academically and emotionally, leading to long-term consequences for their educational journeys. His use of outdated materials and refusal to provide access to the numerous free resources available for AP students online has left us woefully unprepared for the AP exam. His grading system is equally disastrous, consisting almost entirely of unreviewed tests worth an average of 100 points each, while the few assignments given are either irrelevant or worth as little as 5 to 10 points. Out of the entire school year, only 14 assignments have been graded, compared to the 40–50 graded assignments in my other standard classes. This imbalance—95% of grades coming from tests—offers students no opportunity to improve or learn effectively. If this continues, hardworking, high-achieving students like me, with an unweighted 4.0 GPA, will face unnecessary struggles in preparing for higher education and achieving success on AP exams.

        Immediate action is crucial to prevent further harm to both current and future students. Despite raising these concerns with counselors, no meaningful steps have been taken to address the issue. Mr. Stelly’s conduct—including shouting at students, using rude language, emailing parents without informing students, and wasting class time promoting his clubs instead of teaching—has created a hostile and unproductive learning environment. His pattern of unprofessionalism is made worse by the fact that he pretends to be a competent and caring teacher whenever administrators are present, but reverts to his neglectful and dismissive behavior as soon as they leave. This isn’t just about tone or personality; it’s about the future of countless students who are relying on this class to prepare for their academic and professional goals. It is unacceptable for a teacher this unqualified and ineffective to continue in a role as important as AP Computer Science A. The school must act immediately to either provide him with a mentor, reassign him to a more suitable role, or replace him entirely with a qualified educator who can deliver the education students at Windermere High School deserve.