Gresham High School teachers and classified staff held a “vote of no confidence” against school leadership and district administration after growing concerns around student and staff safety.
After two years of alleged growing violence within the schools halls, including “gang activity” and “students bringing weapons for protection,” the Gresham-Barlow Education Association announced its vote Tuesday, April 30. In total 64 staff members backed the vote, nearly 94% in favor.
In addition to general safety improvements, the union is calling for the removal of Principal Erika Whitlock.
“Gresham High School educators believe our students and families deserve the highest quality of education in a safe environment,” the union wrote in a statement. “Student behavior and a lack of safety for students and staff are the result of broken systems, not the cause of those broken systems.”
The union said school leaders and the Gresham-Barlow School District have been unable or unwilling to hold students accountable for negative behaviors.