Supporters of ousted Madras HS principal plan protest

Members of the Madras High School staff, student, and parent communities said Sunday they plan to pack Tuesday night’s meeting of the 509-J Board of Directors to protest the board’s recent decision to remove Sarah Braman-Smith from her position as principal of Madras High School.

Teachers and supporters said they will gather in the Madras High School front parking lot at 5:45 p.m. on Tuesday to march across to the Buff Intermediate gym where the board meeting will limit the public to one hour for addressing the board.

Supporters said they will wear black, carry signs and bring letters and petitions as they address the board.

Braman-Smith is in her fifth year as principal, having previously served as vice principal for four years.

She was notified in late February that the school board had voted in executive session to remove her as principal. Superintendent Rick Molitor wrote in a letter to the community that she will be moved to “another leadership role.”

The Madras High School community “had no input into the decision to reassign Braman-Smith, despite the fact that the district’s new Strategic Plan places significant emphasis on stakeholder input,” the group opposed to the move said in its statement.

“Teachers want to be treated as trusted professionals who have a say in decisions that impact their daily work experience,” they continued. “Staff members also want to ensure that all voices in the community are heard and honored, and that all students receive equitable treatment.”

The supporters of Braman-Smith said she “is a highly respected, effective leader who has put MHS on a successful path.”

According to Carrie McPeak, president of the Madras Education Association, “We’re asking that the School Board recognize its mistake and have the integrity to respect the voice of the community.”

A group calling itself “Jefferson County Supports Positive Change” said it is made up of “teachers, students, and community members who expect the school board to act in accordance with our Strategic Plan.”

To learn more visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/unhappyfriday/ or call 541-325-1832. #unhappyfriday #inMadras #JCSD509J