Hello Fellow Supporters,

I wanted to update you on last night's community forum to explore gifted services in the southern region of TUHSD.  The rhetoric was modified compared to the first forum, I believe to avoid controversy. Although the stated objective was to explore options, the only option that was discussed was another self-contained gifted academy at Mountain Pointe High School. Additionally the director of Peggy Payne Academy (PPA), a parent and two past graduates of PPA spoke on all the benefits of their experience. The parent was Berdetta Hodge and one of the past graduates was her son who graduated from PPA several years ago. None of the "cons" of this model was presented.  For a truly un-biased exploration of options, other models as well as their pros and cons should have been presented and weighed.  I hope moving forward that Superindent Mendivil and the Governing Board will embrace a decision that will be equitable, accessible, and ethical for our gifted students.  

Would you please continue to spread the word about this petition to other parents and stakeholders in the school District?  And if you haven't already, please contact the Superintendent and Governing Board to voice your concerns.  

Thank you, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!