To the School Board of Chester Community School District 139,

As concerned members of this community, we are writing to formally request the immediate removal or resignation of Kimberly Briggs, the current superintendent of Chester Community School District 139. It is with great disappointment and urgency that we bring forth the numerous failures of leadership and ethical conduct under their tenure, which have left our students, staff, and families in a state of disarray and suffering.

Over the past several years, Kimberly Briggs has consistently demonstrated a lack of leadership, innovation, and a disregard for the well-being of those they are entrusted to serve. 

Under their leadership, we have witnessed numerous failures to uphold the rights of students with disabilities and students of color, as well as to follow essential state and federal guidelines that ensure the well-being and safety of all students, staff, and families in our district.

The following issues are critical to the safety, fairness, and educational success of our students and must be addressed immediately. The following points highlight some of the most pressing concerns:

1. Failure to Follow District Policies, Handbooks, and Civil Rights Laws: The superintendent has repeatedly disregarded the district’s established policies, the staff handbook, and, more alarmingly, civil rights laws that are meant to protect students and families. This failure not only undermines the integrity of our school district but also puts our students, staff, and families at serious risk.
2. Toxic Work Environment: The superintendent has fostered a toxic environment within the district, where dedicated and effective staff members are being driven out, often through harassment or unjust treatment. Meanwhile, individuals who engage in harmful behavior towards students or contribute to unsafe educational environments are allowed to remain in their positions without facing any discipline or consequences.
3. Unfair Treatment of Vulnerable Families: One of the most concerning failures of leadership has been the superintendent’s treatment of families, particularly those facing homelessness due to domestic violence. This behavior directly contradicts the McKinney-Vento Act, which is designed to protect and support homeless students and families. Instead of offering support, the superintendent has targeted these families, further exacerbating their struggles.
4. Unjust Rescinding of Job Offers: Numerous job offers to qualified candidates have been rescinded without explanation or just cause, leaving both prospective staff and their families in an uncertain and untenable situation. This lack of transparency and professionalism is unacceptable.
5. Failure to Follow State and Federal Guidelines for Students with Disabilities: Kimberly Briggs has consistently failed to ensure that the district adheres to state and federal guidelines for students with disabilities. This includes the inadequate implementation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and a lack of proper accommodations for students who require support. As a result, students with disabilities are being denied the education and services they are legally entitled to, impeding their academic progress and well-being.
6. Failure to Support Students of Color: Under the superintendent's leadership, students of color have been disproportionately impacted by unfair disciplinary actions and a lack of proper support services. This includes a failure to address and mitigate discriminatory practices, which result in students of color facing harsher disciplinary measures compared to their peers. The absence of appropriate interventions and support for these students fosters a climate of inequity that undermines their educational experience and opportunities.
7. Failure to Safeguard Teachers and Staff: The superintendent has failed to take appropriate action to protect teachers and staff from the increasing risks posed by at-risk behavior students. By not following state and federal guidelines for managing students exhibiting at-risk behaviors, the district has created an unsafe and unprofessional work environment. Teachers and staff members are left without the necessary resources, support, and training to effectively manage such situations, putting them at physical and emotional risk.
8. Disproportionate Discipline Practices Targeting Students of Color: The superintendent has overseen a system where students of color are disproportionately disciplined compared to their peers. This violation of federal guidelines regarding student discipline practices not only contributes to a climate of racial injustice but also perpetuates the school-to-prison pipeline, further marginalizing these students and limiting their chances for success in the educational system.

The ongoing issues under the current leadership are damaging to the school district’s reputation and are actively preventing the creation of a safe, supportive, and effective learning environment for our children. It is clear that the superintendent has failed to prioritize the well-being of our students and staff and has neglected to act in the best interests of the community.

The failure to follow established state and federal guidelines not only violates the rights of students, especially those from marginalized groups, but it also puts our district at risk for legal action and reputational damage. This lack of leadership is deeply damaging to the educational environment, creating an atmosphere where equity and fairness are not prioritized, and where students, staff, and families are left vulnerable.

Our community deserves leadership that is committed to upholding the rights of all students, providing equal opportunities for success, and ensuring a safe and supportive environment for both students and staff. Additionally, that our community deserves leadership that is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and excellence in education. We need a superintendent who values the rights and safety of all individuals and works tirelessly to create an environment where students can thrive, and staff can be supported in their efforts to provide the best education possible.

We demand immediate action to address these issues and call for the removal or resignation of Kimberly Briggs. Our community deserves leadership that is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and excellence in education. We need a superintendent who values the rights and safety of all individuals and works tirelessly to create an environment where students can thrive, and staff can be supported in their efforts to provide the best education possible.

We, the undersigned, call upon the School Board of Chester Community School District 139 to take immediate action and remove or demand the resignation of Kimberly Briggs. As well as to urge the school board to listen to the voices of the staff, parents, and community members who are advocating for change, and to take swift action to protect the future of our students and the integrity of our educational system.

Thank you for your time and attention to this important matter. We urge you to take swift and decisive action to ensure the best possible future for our school district. We, the undersigned, support this petition.

Sincerely,

[Your Name(s)]
[Your Title(s) or Affiliation(s)]
[Contact Information]
[Date]