The Board and I understand the events at Denman in the 24-25 school year have been particularly difficult for QPS, its staff and students, and the community. We appreciate all who have reached out to me, and Board members, in private, as well as the comments at our public board meetings.
We hear those in our community who are frustrated, sad, disappointed, and even angry about the events and how QPS has addressed the situation. While we cannot force or compel anyone to agree with the manner it was handled, we are hopeful that people can acknowledge, or even respect, that QPS has sought to follow the facts and evidence wherever it led. We have been open to and sought to interview any parent and/or student who has raised a complaint and accepted an invitation to meet in person or by phone. We also have continued to respect that some parents did not want to meet or have his/her child interviewed. At all stages, we have sought to treat parents and students, as well as our own staff who were interviewed, with compassion, openness, and respect.
As we previously communicated, QPS completed its investigation into the allegations of the use of tape by and birthday spankings of students at Denman. We hear and understand that some do not agree with the results. As your Superintendent, I have struggled with the comments that somehow this District and our QPS team members simply do not care about the students and just want to brush things under the rug. Nothing could be further from the truth. QPS is blessed to have hundreds of dedicated professionals that work every day, many for 10, 15 or more than 20 years, to care for and educate your children, the children of Quincy. Yet this difficult time underscores the continual need to grow and improve in the education of young people.
We understand that these events have caused some to consider whether or not they want to continue to have their children educated in QPS. I know that trust must be earned and maintained through action, not just words. It is my sincere hope that all will continue to enroll their children in QPS. We love and welcome all of the children of our community. However, please know I respect and honor a decision to no longer do so. Regardless, as we move forward, this painful episode will serve to renew and reinvigorate my efforts, and those of all of our team at QPS, to provide the world-class education Quincy deserves in an environment that is safe, nurturing, and supportive of all students and staff.
Thank you for your thoughtful consideration.