After starting school two weeks late due to the strike, we have just learned that the entire first grade will be disrupted just as they have settled in, as a beloved 1st grade teacher has been let go due to district projections.  Julie Pietsch has been a part of Schmitz Park both as a parent and as an educator for years, and threw a massive amount of time, energy, and passion into her new class even in these first few weeks.

Schmitz Park is a hugely over-crowded school, as boundaries were expanded this year yet again, despite the fact that our new facility won't be ready until next school year.  And there is a massive housing boom happening which is certain to bring new kids in throughout the year.

We cannot do this to our children who will not understand why their teacher has to leave and who will also now be asked to learn in a classroom nearing 30 students.

The school board needs to find a way to allow us to keep this beloved teacher and ensure that our students have the 1st grade learning opportunity they deserve.