Ongoing complaints and issues raised by Bridgeport teachers and parents have gone unanswered by the superintendent, and now teachers are expressing their dissatisfaction with the superintendent’s leadership in a new survey hand delivered today to Board of Education members.
According to the survey, nearly all (97%) respondents have no confidence in the superintendent’s ability to manage the school system effectively. The survey, conducted by the Bridgeport Education Association (BEA), highlights a growing sense of frustration, fear of retaliation, and a lack of resources within the district.
“The results of this survey should come as no surprise and should be a wake up call to the Board of Education to take action,” said CEA President Kate Dias. “Our teachers have held rallies and are speaking loud and clear: they feel unsupported, unappreciated, and fearful of retaliation if they voice their concerns. It’s unacceptable that so many educators are considering leaving the district, and it’s a direct reflection of the superintendent’s failure to foster a collaborative and respectful environment. We need leadership that listens to teachers, addresses the real issues in our schools, and works with us to provide our students with the resources and support they deserve.”
Nearly 600 Bridgeport educators completed the survey. It underscores a deep divide between teachers and district leadership:
- 97% of teachers lack confidence in the superintendent’s leadership.
- 93% expressed fear of retaliation if they voice concerns about current conditions.
- 93% report the superintendent unprofessional in dealings with teachers and staff.
- 92% say the superintendent lacks consistency in carrying out policies and procedures.
- 88% believe policy decisions are not based on research
- 80% of teachers are considering or have considered leaving Bridgeport for a position in another district.
In their comments, many teachers pointed to systemic issues within the district, including inadequate resources and a troubling climate of distrust.
The survey also revealed particular concerns about special education. Teachers reported inappropriate placements for students, overburdened caseloads, and insufficient support, creating what they describe as a crisis for both students and staff.
“We will always stand up to protect teachers and students from superintendents who fail to address the changes our schools need,” said Dias. “Our educators deserve a leader who respects their expertise and works collaboratively to solve the challenges facing our schools. We need leadership that listens to teachers, addresses the real issues in our schools, and works with us to provide our students with the resources and support they deserve. It’s time for the district to prioritize solutions that make a real difference for both students and staff and that means a new administrator to lead the district forward.”
Listen to Dias discuss the new survey of Bridgeport teachers in a live interview with Melissa in the Morning on WICC Radio 600 on Monday, October 28.
