The Pomona Unified School District Board meeting held on May 7, 2025, addressed several pressing issues raised by community members, focusing on funding for high school sports and concerns regarding school administration and program changes.
The meeting began with a public comment from a parent advocating for a reevaluation of funding allocated to high school football teams. The speaker emphasized the importance of sports in providing educational opportunities and personal growth, sharing a personal story about how football influenced their college journey. This appeal highlighted the broader implications of sports funding on student experiences and development.
Following this, another parent, Hong Wong, voiced serious concerns regarding the administration at Cantara Elementary. Wong detailed ongoing issues related to bullying faced by his daughter and criticized the school's handling of the situation, particularly the principal's suggestion to transfer the victim rather than address the bullying. He expressed dissatisfaction with the school's decision to change the dual immersion after-school program to a new vendor, New Era Chinese Academy, which he claimed lacked a proven track record. Wong raised questions about the integrity of the principal and the decision-making process, noting that many parents had expressed similar concerns but felt their voices were ignored.
Wong's comments underscored a lack of transparency and accountability within the school administration, particularly regarding the selection of vendors and the treatment of parents' concerns. He called for a thorough review of the new program and the principal's decisions, emphasizing the need for a trustworthy and responsive school environment.
The meeting concluded with a recognition of the need for further dialogue on these issues, as parents and community members seek to ensure that their concerns are addressed and that students receive the support and opportunities they deserve. The board is expected to follow up on these discussions in future meetings, aiming to foster a more inclusive and responsive educational environment.