I have watched, with growing despair, as the teaching profession I care about so deeply dwindles. Educators, the very foundation of our children's future, are burning out, and some are being pushed to the brink – even to the point of death. In an environment that is supposed to nurture and educate, how can such toxicity be allowed to thrive? Our students deserve nothing but the best, and that cannot happen when their educators are oppressed, harassed, and terrorized.

The problem is rampant bullying within the New York City Department of Education (NYC DOE) by a multitude of administrators who have taken liberties with power to an unacceptable degree – terrorizing their staff and, by extension, the entire learning community. Resources vital for education are being mismanaged or are simply unaccounted for. It’s the students who ultimately suffer when their learning environment is poisoned by fear and frustration.

Chancellor’s regulations and labor laws might suggest that bullying is prohibited, but the reality paints a starkly different picture when it comes to protecting staff from targeted aggression. This indifference to the plight of educators has not only created a hostile workplace but is detrimentally affecting the efficacy and morale of our schools.

We need clear, decisive action to establish a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying of staff within the NYC DOE. Such a policy should include independent oversight to address and document complaints without fear of retribution. 

Furthermore, all educational administrators should undergo mandatory training on leadership built upon respect, integrity, and support, underlining the essential role an educator plays in shaping future generations.

These actions are critical to restoring a healthy, thriving educational environment. It's time for the NYC DOE to lead by example, showing the respect and value our educators rightfully deserve. Encourage your friends, family, and community to join us in demanding change.

Sign this petition to protect our educators and ensure that they—and our students—can thrive in a safe and supportive environment.