Parents demand transparency as St. Helens board searches for new member

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — St. Helens community members continue to fight for transparency in the school district as it searches to fill a board member seat.

The St. Helens School District has been the subject of parent protests ever since two teachers at St. Helens High School were accused of sexual abuse last month. The principal, Katy Wagner, was also arrested and accused of not reporting the alleged abuse to authorities.

During a St. Helens School District Board Meeting at St. Helens Middle School Wednesday night, parents pleaded with the district to do better and address their concerns about student safety and transparency.

"I want you guys to apologize, and stand up and do what we want our children to do, stand up and own something," said Stephanie Kroll.

Board Member Kellie Smith, speaking as a fellow parent, implored her colleagues to listen to the demands.

"While this situation is heartbreaking, I really do not feel upset that we are here. I'm looking forward to the changes, and I agree that more change is needed," Smith said.

The former Board Chair Ryan School resigned weeks following the initial sex abuse accusations. The St. Helens School District is now trying to fill that empty board seat for Position 3. Now community members are asking for insight on the selection process.

"Can you clarify please the process on how a new board member will be picked? Are you forming a committee amongst yourselves to pick the new board member?" asked Sarah Young.

Board Member Bill Ames responded that the board "will clarify that."

Amber Gilbrath, a parent and regular presence at protests in recent weeks, said she and others aren't backing down.

"I feel like a lot of the community thinks it's over in their eyes," Gilbrath said "But parents or the smaller community members now are more involved and more like, what's really going on? We just want to know who we're leaving our kids with."

As the board searches for their next colleague, there are listening sessions where parents can talk about the current state of affairs in a more targeted setting. The listening sessions are happening next week at St. Helens High School and St. Helens Middle School.