A curious case for the dismantling of the Association of Piedmont Teachers (APT)

With over 42,000 students, Clovis Unified School District stands as the largest public school district in California operating without a teachers union since its inception in 1959. Remarkably, it continues this tradition today without a formal union structure.

Consider this — “Can Piedmont Unified School District, with 2,500 students, deliver a quality education while exclusively retaining exceptional teachers without the support of a teachers union?”

I firmly believe that it can – – and many California charter schools share this conviction.

As a dedicated Piedmont parent, I view the Association of Piedmont Teachers (APT) as a hindrance to the District. Many of us share concerns over the allocation of our children to teachers who are well beyond their prime or, conversely, to younger instructors who seem disinterested in fostering our children’s academic growth. The protective measures afforded by the APT make it virtually impossible to dismiss ineffective educators, and this unintended consequence severely impacts the quality of education our children receive.

For instance, one teacher at Piedmont High School, long past their expiration date, depends on students to teach their peers—this is utterly unacceptable. These teachers are hired and compensated to educate—not to delegate that responsibility to students.

Despite the recent CAASPP test results placing our District 3rd in English and Math and 4th in Science, many Piedmont families resort to tutoring because of the glaring lack of effective academic instruction from certain teachers. If we do not address this issue, this will persist.

Our children’s education should never be wielded as a political tool. Yet, the current President of APT, Elise Marks, frequently employs political rhetoric in 80% of her speeches during District school board meetings. Her addresses often reflect personal political views and fears that do not resonate with every Piedmont parent, teacher, support staff member, or administrator. I highly suggest Ms. Marks redirect her focus during school board meetings toward the academic needs and aspirations of our students in Piedmont.