7161 E Devonald Ave
Terre Haute, IN 47805

Hello. My child recently graduated from Otter Creek Middle School and shared with me their thoughts. The school has a severe bullying problem and I had to argue with both deans and counselors repeatedly in order for them to even consider that my child might possibly be being harmed. It felt less like they cared my child was being both emotionally and physically harmed, and more like they just wanted a quick solution. My child said they woke up some days dreading going to school, to the point they feigned severe illness just to get out of it. The school was rarely clean to a good standard, and had at least one bathroom closed at any time. The teachers were not engaging my child, and simply giving them a paper to fill out almost every day as easy "A" busywork. My child came home emotionally exhausted most days, barely saying a word to me or my husband before dinner.

The athletic department's leadership is simply unable to lead, or at least do so in a positive manner. While it looks like a well-oiled machine to the onlooker, behind the scenes there is pettiness and unprofessional rudeness. While some measurable amount of ego-centric behavior is understandable in the high-stakes realm of student athletics, those who administrate in this department are unnecessarily dismissive of professional courtesy. Moreover, from the officials who appear on site to those managing the finances, there is an intolerable tactlessness, a glum frustration, short tempers, the "passing of blame", and a lack of proper organization that is not antiquated. The bulk of the responsibilities are heavily placed on the assistant directors while the lead does not engage. If a mistake arises, fault will fall solely on those who were given the directives. Grace is lost on these individuals; it makes for a sullen work environment that affects the overall joy of student sports.