Why I’m Voting NO to Measure P – – A Disturbing Shift in Piedmont’s Educational Priorities
In recent years, Piedmont Unified has undergone a troubling transformation, one that prioritizes the psychological well-being of students over their academic growth. While the mental health of our students is undeniably important, the current shift raises concerns about the balance—or lack thereof—between emotional support and educational rigor.
As a Piedmont parent, I want all students to thrive in a nurturing environment. However, the increasing emphasis on psychological frameworks (SEL – Social Emotional Learning) seems to overshadow the core mission of education: to equip our children with the knowledge and skills necessary for their futures. Piedmont classrooms that once buzzed with academic rigor and curiosity now often feel more like therapy sessions, where SEL validation takes precedence over critical thinking and problem-solving. This trend is creating a culture of lowered expectations.
Piedmont teachers, burdened with the responsibility of addressing social emotional needs, may find themselves stretched thin, unable to provide the rigorous academic instruction our students deserve. In addition, I deem it harmful that as a school district we ask Piedmont teachers, who are not licensed psychologists, to provide psychological needs to the students which may further harm our students. The overall result is a generation of students who may excel in navigating their feelings but will struggle with foundational knowledge and skills.
While the strong focus of the Piedmont Unified to student mental health is commendable, it is time for Piedmont Unified to reassess its priorities and ensure that we are preparing our children to not just be able to cope within society, but to thrive in it intellectually. The fundamental role of a school district is EDUCATION.
I feel that Piedmont Unified is untruthful in its pursuit of providing Piedmont students with an excellent education. Why would I, or any other Piedmont resident, vote for a measure when the school district’s #1 LCAP goal is not education but rather:
Creating an Environment to Thrive:
Cultivate a culture of caring, belonging, and trust that will provide students and staff with the support they need to foster connections and truly engage in meaningful learning by:
- a. Prioritizing student and staff social and emotional well-being.
- b. Cultivating a culture of respect and connectedness among students, staff, and families.
- c. Leaning into a restorative justice culture through aligned and consistent application of RJ practices.
- d. Incorporating a climate literacy education for students and staff with curriculum matters, as appropriate, and related to site activities outside of the classroom.
Voter information received for Yes on Measure P focus on “Great Schools” and “Great Teachers” BUT how can Piedmont have that if Piedmont Unified’s #1 LCAP goal is not education related ??
Smoke and Mirrors !
Vote NO on Measure P and send a message to the School Board.