“Bullying is real: Houston ISD parents, ex-employees demand more transparency from district leadership

HOUSTON – Houston ISD Teachers tell KPRC 2 they’re still struggling with the constant changes in teaching styles, and administrators are reluctant to talk for fear of losing their jobs.

We also tracked the outrage expressed by parents that this happened after their favorite principal, Dr. Shelby Calabrese was sent on administrative leave.

The sudden change upset parents as well as staff, such as former Love Elementary Principal Sean Tellez, who spoke exclusively with KPRC 2’s Bill Barajas. During their conversation, Tellez admitted he was initially nervous about speaking out, but feels it’s important to him to share his thoughts on why he stepped down as director amid all the changes.

“In March, I decided to voluntarily leave the district. And unfortunately, I faced many of the same challenges and pressures that Dr. Calabrese faced and faced here at Harvard,” he said. “So I definitely wanted to talk. And one of the main things that really motivated me was the lack of professionalism shown by the Central Division.”

“It’s very nerve-wracking. The intimidation is real,” Telles added. “Responsibility goes from top to bottom and vice versa. I think, as I said before, there needs to be a very comprehensive review of the practices and how they are being implemented in all four departments here in HISD to ensure fairness and to make sure that it is really working as intended. in all these different divisions. »

The new director who was supposed to replace Dr. Calabrese later resigned before her start date, citing “massive intimidation on social media.”

HISD Central Superintendent Dr. Luz Martinez, who announced the firing of the new principal, said Dr. Stephanie Spencer will serve as Harvard Elementary’s principal until the end of the school year.

Dr. Spencer has 18 years of experience in Goose Creek CISD and Spring Branch ISD and was named SBISD Elementary Principal of the Year in 2022.

Molly Lashway, who along with Pe Benito was hired as an assistant principal at Harvard, will remain at the school and begin that role as planned.

The parents were able to meet with Dr. Spencer Wednesday night and shared their concerns with KPRC 2’s Deven Clark.