BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – A former Satellite High School teacher appeared before the Brevard County School Board Tuesday night, urging members to reinstate her after her contract was not renewed.
Melissa Calhoun, who lost her position last school year, said she was moved by the show of support from residents, parents and fellow educators who spoke on her behalf during public comment.
“It’s very heartening and encouraging to hear and to see students utilize their voices and parents come to this public forum,” Calhoun said.
Brevard Public Schools says Calhoun’s contract was not renewed after she addressed a student by a preferred name rather than their legal name, in violation of state law.
Calhoun took her case before the Florida Education Practices Commission, which allowed her to keep her teaching certificate but placed her on one year of probation and fined her $750.
“It’s never any teacher’s intent to subvert policy for political radicalization,” Calhoun said. “But the reality is I can’t go back and change that.”
During the meeting, several speakers told board members Calhoun should be given her job back.
“You looked us in the eye. You said you’d reconsider Mrs. Calhoun’s reinstatement if the state cleared her to teach,” one resident said. “The state cleared her to teach, and now you’ve broken your word.”
Another parent called Calhoun “one of the best” educators their child had.
Calhoun said she is currently in arbitration with the school district. The Florida Education Association is also reviewing legal options in the wake of her termination.