WALNUT CREEK, CA — Parents of children of a Walnut Creek school are organizing after two principals left in quick succession, including one midyear, leaving families questioning what drove the exits and whether another departure can be stopped.
More than 200 parents of children enrolled in the Tice Creek School — the only K-8 school in the district — signed a petition in under 48 hours calling on the Walnut Creek School District to retain current principal, Tyson Fechter.
Families plan to attend the school board meeting Monday at 6 p.m. tonight at the district office on Ygnacio Valley Road, where they expect to bring signs and demand answers.
District officials have declined to discuss personnel matters and have pointed to overall stability, but have not explained why two principals departed abruptly or what steps were taken to keep them, according to of the parents, Aileen Abaya Ong. That silence has intensified concern among families who say the pattern does not add up.
In the petition, parents describe Fechter as a visible and engaged leader who has built trust with students, staff, and families while strengthening school culture. They argue that losing him—just one year after another respected principal left—would disrupt classrooms, unsettle teachers, and erode confidence in district leadership.
Families are asking the school board and Superintendent Marie Morgan to make every effort to retain Fechter, disclose what actions have been taken, and address what they see as a pattern of turnover. Many say stability at the top is essential for student success and staff support.
One parent, who signed the petition as Mrs. Dotson, described “remarkable transformation” in her child’s academic performance and behavior under Fechter’s leadership, crediting his approach with improving communication, collaboration, and confidence in the classroom.
Parents now plan to carry those stories into tonight's meeting, where they intend to press district leaders directly and push for clear answers about what comes next for Tice Creek.
Where: 960 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek
When: Meeting begins at 4 p.m. Public comments at 7 p.m.
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