Benson, Ariz. -- A group of parents at St. David are accusing the school’s superintendent, Dr. Arlene Kennedy of targeting and bullying students.
The school is a part of the St. David Unified School District. It has about 500 students, ranging from preschool to high school.
At least 60 parents showed up to the district board meeting on campus.
About 10 parents spoke at the meeting, claiming the superintendent had singled out a group of middle school students last month.
Among those parents at the meeting was a former employee, Rachel Barrett. She claims her son saw students being singled out after they pulled drywall from a bathroom.
“The superintendent pulled all of the kids into the hallway and then asked all the bad kids to step forward. That's not right, that's not okay. That's not how children should be treated,” Barrett told KGUN9.
However, Superintendent Dr. Arleen Kennedy denies those allegations, saying she never said that and denies ever bullying students.
Dr. Kennedy adds these allegations come as a surprise, claiming parents nor teachers have addressed their concerns with her.
She says they have come in to praise the academics in her schools, adding her high school (grades 9-12) has an A average, and her elementary school (grades K-8) has a B average.
“For 18 months, everybody thinks, she's doing a wonderful job. I put on my agenda something a decision that will change some things and then all of a sudden I'm a bully to everyone,” said Dr. Kennedy.
So while the superintendent stands by her statements, parents say they will continue to speak up until they see change or new superintendent.
In the meantime, Dr. Kennedy says she is open to hearing both parent and teacher concerns. The superintendent adds it's only fair to let her address those concerns before they are taken to the board.
