February 11, 2019 

 

Dear Shaker Schools Community,

As a community, we are continually looking for ways to learn, grow and to ensure that our District is focused on doing the work it needs to foster and promote a learning environment that is healthy, nurturing and provides exceptional learning opportunities for all. Yet, the past year was filled with many painful and difficult moments for our District and our community. We understand the skepticism, division and concerns that exist. We have reflected on the past and it’s time to move forward to make our District whole again.  

With that goal in mind, the District has withdrawn the disciplinary action against Jody Podl, a High School English teacher. We did not come to this decision lightly but rather with the firm understanding that there is important work ahead for our District, work that will require collaboration among our students, our teachers, our administrators, our Board and our community. We’ve heard from all parts of the community, including the High School students, their families and the teacher at the center of this controversy. There is a consensus that we, as a community, want to move forward and turn our collective focus toward healing and learning.  

Shaker is strong. Every day more than 500 educators and 5,000 students enter our buildings to learn, grow and acquire the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. We have learned from the past and will be better. Let us join hands and work together to forge the bonds that keep our schools strong.

Dr. Stephen M. Wilkins, Ed.D
Interim Superintendent