During a recent meeting at Tavares Elementary, concerns were raised regarding the treatment of students, particularly those with disabilities and from minority backgrounds. A parent, Miss Karen Ortega, expressed her disappointment over how incidents involving her son and another student were handled by the school's staff. She highlighted a troubling allegation that a teacher fabricated a story about her son choking another child, which she argued violates the student code of conduct.

Ortega emphasized the emotional toll this situation has taken on her son, Noah, who has experienced anxiety and distress as a result of the teacher's actions. She recounted an incident where Noah was reprimanded by a teacher for trying to comfort a friend during a game, which left him feeling sad and isolated.

The parent’s testimony underscored a broader issue of accountability within the school, particularly regarding how educators interact with and support students who may already be vulnerable. Ortega's comments reflect a growing concern among parents about the need for a more supportive and understanding environment in schools, especially for children facing additional challenges. The meeting served as a platform for these critical discussions, highlighting the importance of addressing such issues to foster a safe and inclusive educational atmosphere.