In Fresno, California, educational interpreters at Phoenix Secondary Academy are urging Fresno Unified School District to implement a comprehensive safety plan in response to escalating threats and violence from students. The school, which serves at-risk youth, has become a focal point of concern for staff who feel their safety is at risk.
Calls for Action
Chantel Cox, an educational interpreter, highlighted the urgent need for a written safety plan. She noted that interpreters are now on a rotating schedule, leading to inconsistent services for students at other sites. Cox described incidents where staff were threatened and felt unsafe, yet were accused of job abandonment when they left the site for safety reasons.
One alarming incident involved a student threatening to kill staff and students, throwing a desk, and smearing blood on walls. Despite these actions, the student faced minimal consequences, such as being allowed to go to lunch and participate in leisure activities.
District Response and Staff Demands
Shelly Smith, another interpreter, reported that the same student threatened a school shooting and shared social media posts showing access to weapons. Despite evidence presented to district administrators and law enforcement, the student has not faced significant disciplinary action.
Staff demand a meeting with district officials to develop a safety plan, transfer the involved student to another site for additional support, and reimbursement for sick leave used due to these threats. They also request remote work options and enhanced student behavioral support.
Union Support
Manuel Bonilla, president of the Fresno Teachers Association, supported the interpreters, criticizing the district’s response as inadequate. He noted that some staff have resorted to taking sick and unpaid leave due to the stress of the situation.
The district acknowledged the concerns and emphasized its commitment to following procedures for safety issues. However, interpreters like Lisa Hemenway expressed frustration over the lack of action, stating that requests to review evidence and meet as a group have been ignored.
Original reporting: Fresnoland — read the source article.
