The district contacted the CEA this week to discuss the investigation criticizing the superintendent, but did not receive a response from the association.
BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — The Connecticut Education Association recently distributed a teacher survey criticizing Bridgeport Public Schools, but district administrators knew nothing about it and still don’t know much. That’s what I’m saying.
Earlier this week, the CEA issued a release titled “Bridgeport Educators Express Overwhelming Confidence in the Superintendent.”
In its release, CEA said 97% of the approximately 600 Bridgeport teachers who responded to the survey had confidence in BPS Superintendent Dr. Carmela Levy-David’s ability to effectively manage the school system. It says no. The survey, conducted by the Bridgeport Education Association, highlighted a growing sense of frustration within the district, fear of retaliation and lack of resources.
“These findings are not surprising and should serve as a wake-up call for school boards to take action,” said CEA President Kate Diaz. “Our teachers are meeting and speaking loud and clear. They feel unsupported and unappreciated, and they fear retaliation if they raise concerns. of educators considering leaving the district is unacceptable and is a direct reflection of the superintendent’s inaction.” To foster a supportive and respectful environment, listening to teachers is essential. We need leadership that leans in, addresses the real issues in our schools, and works with us to provide our students with the resources and support they deserve. ”
The survey found that 93% of teachers expressed fear of retaliation if they raised concerns about the current situation, and 93% said Levy-David had a professional attitude when interacting with educators and staff. 92% reported inconsistent implementation of policies and procedures. , 88% believe policy decisions are not based on research, and 80% are considering or have considered leaving Bridgeport for a job in another school district.
The Bridgeport School District learned of the investigation Wednesday night and contacted CEA Thursday to discuss and view the investigation, but did not receive a response by the end of the day.
“While we are disappointed that the CEA did not share its findings with us first so we could have worked together, we take seriously the concerns raised about teacher confidence in our leadership. “We accept the situation as such,” Levi-David said in the release.
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The Bridgeport School District said it implemented the policy earlier this year in an effort to improve student outcomes. The district acknowledged there have been some shortfalls in recent years.
Bridgeport is one of the lowest-performing schools in the state, according to district data. State assessments of English language arts showed that only 20% of students in the district are performing at or above grade level, and 80% of students are below grade level.
Additionally, the district’s math state assessment results revealed that only 12% of students performed at or above grade level, and 88% of students were below grade level.
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Research shows that teachers have the greatest impact on student achievement, and the district’s priorities ensure that teachers have the resources and unconditional support they need to make BPS one of the best school districts in the state. states that it can be given to
In response to the new policy, BPS said teachers told them the changes were being rolled out overwhelmingly and too quickly. In response, district administrators said they listened and scaled back the changes.
Levy-David said the feedback she has received regarding the district’s change of pace has been appreciated. She said BPS is committed to coordinating how it implements its strategy, and administrators are actively working with key stakeholders, including teachers, to make necessary improvements. I did.
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“We understand that feelings of fear and anxiety can have a significant impact on staff’s willingness to communicate openly, but their feedback is essential to continuing to improve the situation.” Levi-David said. “We are committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where educators feel able to express their thoughts and concerns without fear of retaliation.”
BPS says administrators are working hard to continue improving the district for teachers so they can best serve students. The district says teachers have a responsibility under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to provide an equal educational opportunity to all students, regardless of race, color or national origin.
“We are determined to introduce changes that support students’ right to fair access to education, regardless of their special needs or learning differences,” Levy-David said. “All teachers entered this profession to meet the needs of our students, and we are confident that all Bridgeport educators are committed to this purpose and will support our efforts to transform the lives of our students.” ”
The CEA said the survey also highlighted concerns regarding special education. Teachers reported that inappropriate student placement, overload, and insufficient support created a crisis for both students and staff.
“We will always stand up to protect teachers and students from superintendents who fail to address the changes our schools need. We deserve a leader who will work collaboratively on solutions,” Diaz said. We need leadership that listens to teachers, addresses the real issues in our schools, and works with us to provide our students with the resources and support they deserve. It’s time for the district to prioritize solutions that make a real difference for both students and faculty, and that means a new administrator moving the district forward. ”
On Thursday, the full findings were shared with members of the Bridgeport School Board, but apparently not with Levi-David or her team.
Diaz promised that the initiative will continue to move forward and continue to listen to Bridgeport teachers.
“We will continue to advocate with resolve and determination to do what is right for our students and our profession,” Diaz said.
This is a developing story. We will share more details as they become available in the coming days and weeks.
Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer for FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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