'We Don’t All Freak Out Like You’: Friction Escalates in District Board Meeting

Tensions flare at a West Valley school board meeting as a new member, voicing concerns over teacher feedback, is accused of 'freaking out.'

Months of turmoil in the Liberty Elementary School District hit a new level as tensions rose with a newly seated board member. Before the fireworks, one board member walked out, cutting their tenure short mid-meeting, while 19 parents, teachers, and students vented frustration at the superintendent and governing board.

The quote of the night? 'We don't all freak out like you.'

During a discussion on Strategic Plan KPIs - Key Performing Indicators, new board member Kellie Zimmerman expressed frustration, raising concerns that the KPIs prioritize teacher perception over evaluating the actual programs. This sparked tension, with Board Vice President Kris Kenyon responding with the pointed remark, “We don’t all freak out like you.”

The superintendent clarified that the “perception” of a supportive climate, as measured by surveys, is reflected in the data. Specifically, the report states an improvement goal to enhance the perception of a supportive climate and culture at both district and building levels, with the current 2023-2024 survey showing 59% of respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing.

Board Member Walks Out: A Dramatic Exit Cuts Tenure Short

Earlier in the meeting, Liberty Elementary School District board member Paul Bixler delivered a passionate closing statement before leaving the meeting midway, opting not to stay until its conclusion.

Board member Bixler endured a controversial tenure, having previously faced a recall effort, though the petitioners did not secure enough signatures to proceed. Notably, on January 25, 2022, Bixler reportedly spoke before the Arizona House Education Committee in opposition to House Bill 2161, which sought to extend parental rights.

Bixler was a vocal advocate for policies allowing children ages five and older to intermingle in sports, including shared access to bathrooms, changing rooms, and common areas.

Unopposed and elected to the Liberty Elementary School District governing board in 2020, Bixler ran for re-election in 2024. However, in a field of five candidates vying for three seats, Bixler finished fifth.

Community Rallies as Teacher’s Future Hangs by a Thread

The highlight of the meeting was the overwhelming turnout of community members rallying behind the Estrella Mountain Elementary School principal. Concerned speakers addressed fears that Superintendent Dr. Monroe may not renew her contract. One speaker passionately shared her gratitude for enrolling her children at the school, despite regretting the need to relocate to Goodyear, Arizona, just to access the quality education.

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Calls for Board President’s Resignation Over Controversial Comments

A Liberty Elementary School District parent publicly demanded the resignation of Governing Board President Bryan Parks after leaked audio revealed him downplaying the assault of former student Kayleigh Kozak, as reported by State 48 News. The recordings sparked outrage, with critics accusing Parks of dismissing the gravity of the incident that led Kozak to become a champion for survivor protections, including Kayleigh’s Law. For more on Kozak's lawsuit against the district and her fight for justice, read here.

Advocate Kayleigh Kozak Files Explosive Lawsuit Against Liberty Elementary School District for Past Abuse by Soccer Coach

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THE MORE YOU KNOW

The Liberty Elementary School District Governing Board entered executive session, pausing the video feed for 2 hours, 16 minutes, and 25 seconds, to discuss the superintendent's evaluation (Governing Board Policy CBI, CBI-E) and consult legal counsel under A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A)(3). Upon returning to the regular meeting, new board member Kellie Zimmerman requested an agenda item for the next meeting to seek legal advice regarding the non-renewal of administrators.

This request follows the last board meeting, where the board amended the superintendent’s contract, paving the way for a $37,000 raise. The move aligns with a 15-year-old Arizona law that allows school superintendents to cash in on performance bonuses of up to 20% of their base salary.

READ: Cracking Down on Excess: Arizona Lawmakers Target Lavish School Spending and Bloated Bonuses in 2025 Reforms

West Valley Families’ partner, State 48 News, is diving deep into this story. Don’t miss out—subscribe to their Substack for hard-hitting, ongoing coverage.

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