Teacher speaks out following dismissal from coaching positions

Gila Ridge High School teacher Jamie McGalliard is speaking out following her dismissal from her two coaching positions after being accused of bullying.

McGalliard, who won the Yuma County Teacher of the Year award, spoke out two weeks after the Yuma Union High School District board “unanimously” voted to dismiss her from coaching at Gila Ridge High School.

McGalliard released the following statement:

“I have been passionate about teaching and coaching before I ever joined the profession. I have bled Carolina Blue for over ten years. One thing I prided myself on is constant reflection and ways to improve not only as a teacher and coach but more importantly each day as a person. In education, we talk about specific feedback to help students reach their potential. I was told by the district they would not be retaining me as a coach or instructional leader; however, I still do not know why. I am very confused and do not understand how I can reflect and move forward if I do not know what I have done to reflect upon. The Human Resources Director Wanda Ellis told me, “They would like me to focus on my teaching.” This left me even more confused. As I continue to ask questions about what I have done, the answer I have been given is we need to move forward. It is difficult for me to do my job and do it well if I do not know what teaching or coaching strategies I am supposed to be moving forward from. I would like answers not only for myself but the entire teaching profession in order to improve and do what is best for kids. I have spent days and nights since being told I was terminated trying to go back and think of instances where I might have been seen as too harsh. I know in my heart I have never acted inappropriately or “bullied” any student/athlete, but I am really trying to come to grips with what I did to have the District make these decisions.”

We obtained the two appeals McGalliard filed to the district last month and on September 14. The appeals made by McGalliard document the allegations against her including bullying, insubordination, and conducting improper practices. Those were all stated in an email sent to her by Gila Ridge principal Shawn Wehrer back in July.

According to McGalliard, no proof or explanation was given to support the allegations. The appeals also question “whether or not” the district followed it’s own policies on their investigation and their discipline procedures in this case.

McGalliard is currently on paid leave for her teaching position at Gila Ridge High School.