What is Reconstitution?
The No Child Left Behind Act allows districts to restructure a school if it does not meet its adequate yearly progress targets after several years. Reconstitution is one of five restructuring options. Reconstitution means that every teacher and staff member is dismissed from the school and must reapply for their job.

Reasons to Stop Reconstitution at Fremont High School:

1. It has shown to be a publicity stunt. Mr. Cortines publicly announced his decision to reconstitute Fremont weeks after meeting with Arne Duncan, the Education Secretary. In fact the Secretary of Education was at a middle school several miles away at the same time Mr. Cortines announced his decision to reconstitute Fremont.

2. Research shows Reconstitution is more disruptive than helpful. Numerous studies show that reconstituted schools are either unsuccessful or take numerous years to improve.

3. The “plan” for a reconstituted Fremont is baseless and vague. Faculty and staff still do not know when and how they can reapply. There is no clear academic or organizational plan for next year.

4. Reconstitution will mean sacrificing the academic progress of our current students. Students will have new and possibly inexperienced teachers. Many SLCs will be disbanded and students will be displaced.

5. Teachers, staff, and parents are not allowed to be decision makers in the restructuring process. Teachers have been told that since they are not guaranteed to be at Fremont next year, they cannot be decision-makers in the plans for next year. Dr. McKenna mentioned in the faculty meeting on January 26th that parents need to be informed of the reforms and do not necessarily need to be a part of the decision-making.

We the undersigned believe that reconstitution is not the best option for Fremont High School students. We will not reapply or support restructuring unless:

1. Faculty, staff, parents and students are given the power to make real decisions about the future of Fremont.

2. The mass dismissal of teachers and staff is rescinded.

3. Successful existing reforms are supported and fully implemented.

4. Major restructuring is postponed for at least one year when Fremont goes to a traditional calendar.

Over 160 faculty and staff have signed the paper petition.  If you haven't signed yet, please put your name and title (teacher, parent, student, community member, etc.)

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