A teacher in Florida has lost her job after using a student’s preferred name without getting permission from the student’s parents.
This situation has raised many questions about student choices, parental rights, and the responsibilities of teachers in schools.
It has sparked a wider discussion about the balance between rules and personal choices in classrooms.
Melissa Calhoun, a teacher at Satellite High School in Brevard County, was told that her contract for the next school year would not be renewed.
The decision came after she used a name for a student that was different from the legal name listed in school records.
This happened without completing the required form that asks for parental approval first.
Florida has a rule called the “Parental Authorization for Deviation from Student’s Legal Name Form.”
This rule means teachers must have permission from parents before calling students by a different name.
The rule has been in place since the 2023–2024 school year, making it a clear guideline for schools.
The issue began when the student’s parent raised a concern about Calhoun’s choice. The school district then carried out an investigation.
A spokesperson for Brevard Public Schools said that Calhoun confirmed she had used the student’s preferred name.
Because of this, the district chose not to continue her contract.
Since the state is also reviewing her teaching license, the district decided not to renew her contract while the review is ongoing.
Calhoun had been teaching at Satellite High School since 2013. Her departure has been felt by many students and families.
Her long years of teaching have made this decision more noticeable in the school community.
Janet Murnaghan, the district’s spokesperson, explained that the district supports parents as the main decision-makers in their children’s education.
A petition on Change.org, called “Reinstate Ms. Calhoun,” has gained over 14,580 signatures by April 10.
Supporters have shared their experiences with Calhoun, praising her dedication to teaching and her positive impact on students.
The petition reflects the strong support she has from many people in the community.