During a recent Houston Independent School District (HISD) board meeting, parents, teachers, and community members voiced strong concerns regarding the district's management and safety protocols, particularly in light of recent tragedies and ongoing issues with uncertified teachers.

Karina Quesada opened the discussion by criticizing the district's failure to enforce parental notification laws regarding uncertified teachers, claiming that the current policies lack enforcement mechanisms and transparency. She expressed frustration over the district's approach to teacher certification, suggesting that it undermines the professionalism of educators and jeopardizes student safety.

Melissa Yarbrough emphasized the importance of safety in schools, urging the board to prioritize measures such as ensuring classroom doors remain locked to prevent intrusions. She called for accountability regarding the circumstances surrounding the death of a student, Landon Payton, and demanded transparency in the release of related records.

Ruth Kravitz and other speakers criticized the district's educational policies, particularly the decision to restrict access to full books and advanced courses for students. Kravitz argued that such policies hinder students' academic growth and safety, urging a reevaluation of the bond measure proposed by the district.

Several speakers highlighted the deteriorating conditions in schools, attributing them to poor financial management by Superintendent Mike Miles. Concerns were raised about inadequate air conditioning and the impact of mismanagement on the learning environment. One speaker likened the situation to ignoring a leaky roof while seeking funds for unrelated expenses, questioning the district's ability to manage a proposed $4.4 billion bond responsibly.

Teachers and parents alike expressed dissatisfaction with the district's treatment of educators, particularly regarding pay disparities between veteran certified teachers and new uncertified hires. They called for better support and mentorship for new teachers to ensure a stable learning environment for students.

The meeting concluded with a call for accountability and a demand for the district to prioritize the well-being and education of students over financial gains. The overarching sentiment among speakers was clear: without trust in the district's leadership and policies, support for future bond measures would be severely lacking.