1237 Beaver Way
La Verne, CA 91750

I am writing to share a serious concern about the school’s approach to discipline and communication with families. My daughter, who was in TK, was placed on a behavior chart at four years old and was told she would have me called for normal, developmentally-appropriate behaviors. That interaction created significant anxiety for her; she now questions whether she is a “good kid,” which is heartbreaking and unacceptable for a preschooler.When I attempted to bring this matter to the principal’s attention, I was dismissed. I was told my daughter was “just here on transfer” and that I could have her moved to a school “where she belongs.” This response by a school leader was off-putting and felt like a refusal to address a child’s emotional safety. The front office also frequently treats families with a cold or dismissive attitude, making it hard to voice concerns.That said, the school nurse and librarian deserve recognition for the compassion and warmth they show students every day. Their presence is one of the few positive aspects on campus.While I was trying to discuss with the principal some of my issues, she addressed the office staff, which then made them look uncomfortable. They would not meet her gaze, and they were fidgeting as they were trying to communicate with her, which shows me that it’s not just an issue with children she has she’s not a very kind of approachable person in general.I urge the administration to reassess how young students are disciplined and how staff communicate with families. Young children need supportive, developmentally-appropriate guidance — not fear-based tactics — and parents should be heard and supported when they advocate for their children’s emotional well-being.