A Blue Valley teacher terminated last week for physically moving a special needs student has received public support from an unexpected source: the student's own family. The family sent a letter to the school board advocating for the teacher's reinstatement, joining a growing chorus of community members who believe the district's action was unjust.
Key Takeaways
- Barb Hart, a teacher with 25 years of experience, was fired by the Blue Valley School District for violating policy after moving a special needs student in her classroom.
- The family of the student involved has formally requested the school board reinstate Hart, describing her as a "loving, caring, and passionate" educator.
- An online petition to rehire the teacher has gathered nearly 2,500 signatures from community members.
- The school board and the Kansas Department of Education have provided conflicting information regarding who holds the final authority on such employment decisions.
Teacher Fired for Moving Student
The controversy began earlier this week when the Blue Valley School District terminated Barb Hart, a veteran kindergarten teacher. The district stated the firing was due to a violation of school policy. Reports indicate the incident involved Hart physically picking up a special needs student and moving the child to a different, safe area within the classroom.
Following her termination, Hart released a statement expressing her gratitude for the community's backing. She emphasized her connection to her students and the importance of the ongoing discussion her case has generated.
"I miss my students deeply, and I truly appreciate each and every individual who has supported me and spoken on my behalf. This has sparked meaningful conversations that absolutely need to continue," Hart said.
Student's Family Voices Strong Support
In a significant development, the family of the student at the center of the incident has come forward to defend the teacher. In a letter addressed to the Blue Valley school board, the family praised Hart's dedication and character, urging the district to reconsider its decision.
The letter highlights Hart's positive impact on their child during the student's first semester of kindergarten. The family described her as a uniquely qualified educator whose long career is a testament to her commitment.
A Plea for Reconsideration
The family's letter directly challenges the school board's decision, framing it as a loss for the community. They argue that while replacing an employee is simple, finding a teacher of Hart's caliber is difficult.
"25 years of teaching experience have shaped her to be one of a kind. To be frank, 25 years, to any person, means more than a job; she has loyalty, and she must love it strongly," the letter stated. "I hope that Blue Valley School District takes it seriously to get Mrs. Hart back."
Community Rallies Behind Veteran Educator
The family's letter is part of a broader wave of public support for Barb Hart. A petition launched on Change.org, titled "Bring Mrs. Hart Back!," has rapidly gained traction. As of Sunday, the petition had secured nearly 2,500 signatures.
The petition's description frames Hart's actions as compassionate and necessary for the student's well-being. It argues that her decision was made with care and was intended to help a student in distress return to a learning environment.
Decades of Experience
Barb Hart's 25-year career in education has become a central point for her supporters, who argue that her long-standing commitment to students should have been a key factor in the board's decision-making process.
"On that day, Mrs. Hart acted with compassion to support a student in distress, ensuring the child’s well-being and ability to rejoin learning," the petition reads. It further states that her actions were in "alignment with the values we share as a community."
Conflicting Statements on Legal Authority
The situation has been complicated by conflicting statements from local and state education officials. On Monday, the Blue Valley school board's vice president claimed the board was simply following state law by firing Hart. However, this assertion appears to be contradicted by the Kansas Department of Education (KDSE).
The KDSE clarified its position, stating that employment matters fall under the purview of the local school board, not the state. The department regulates specific policies but does not dictate hiring or firing decisions.
"Employment issues are within the discretion of the school board. The State Board regulates the use of seclusion and restraint in schools but provides no rules, regulations or guidance on any employment issues," a KDSE spokesperson explained.
This discrepancy raises questions about the basis for the board's decision and whether state law was accurately represented as the reason for Hart's termination. The story is still developing as the community awaits further response from the school district.
