Mission Early College High School (MECHS) is more than an educational institution. It is a close-knit community where students are encouraged to challenge themselves, take on leadership roles, create opportunities, and have their voices heard. Our clubs, leadership programs, class councils, and school events are a major part of what makes MECHS such a unique and meaningful school.

However, the recent Santa Clara Unified School District (SCUSD) “right-sizing” process has directly affected our campus. One of the most significant changes has been the loss of our Vice Principal, Dr. Knight, who provided important administrative support to our students, teachers, leadership, clubs, class councils, events, and overall school community.

The concern is not simply about losing one position. It is about what happens when that support is removed without an adequate replacement. Our teachers already have demanding responsibilities teaching and supporting students, particularly in an early college environment. Expecting them to absorb additional administrative responsibilities is not a sustainable solution, nor is it a fair expectation to place on already-busy educators.

MECHS students deserve the opportunity to continue building the community we have worked so hard to create. We deserve strong administrative leadership, accessible support, and the resources necessary for our clubs, leadership, class councils, and student events to continue successfully.

We understand that SCUSD is making difficult decisions regarding staffing and resources. However, “MECHS managed before” should not be the standard for determining what our students deserve today. Our school has grown, our programs have grown, and the needs of our students have grown with them.

This is why students have taken action. We have organized a petition, created social media posts, spoken with fellow students, and brought our concerns directly to the district. We are not simply complaining about change. We are advocating for a reasonable solution that supports our students and our teachers.

We are asking SCUSD to recognize the impact this change has had on MECHS and to provide the campus with the administrative support it needs, including restoring a Vice Principal position.

MECHS is an incredible school because of the students, teachers, staff, and community that make it what it is. We want to protect that community, strengthen it, and make sure future MECHS students have the same opportunities we have had.

Please sign and share this petition to show SCUSD that MECHS students deserve to be heard, supported, and prioritized.

Credits to the owner of the original photo.