I am appalled at the citizens of Fountain Hills. The reaction to the firing of Ms. Aister has been ridiculous. And now the mayor threatening to not support the school override just shows the lack of leadership in this town.

The School Board had to make a hard choice and they did not take it lightly. After going through due process and at the recommendation of a hearing officer agreed upon by both parties (paid for by the district because that is what contracts state the district must do), the board had to complete its duty and make the right decision.

For the people out there who don’t agree with the decision, there are as many people that do including parents and teachers. We, however, do not choose to publicize the reasons this teacher should have been terminated years ago. The administration warned Ms. Aister on multiple occasions that her interaction with students was inappropriate. This time the administration had facts and testimony to proceed.

It’s interesting that her supporters continue to tout racism even though the hearing officer clearly stated neither racism nor bullying ever occurred.

The only bullying going on is from Ms. Aister’s supporters, which include the mayor. The mayor has threatened the board in an email that she will not support the override on the November ballot unless they reinstate Ms. Aister “because they are friends” and supporting the override would appear she was “supporting the board.”

Last, Ms. Aister wasn't dismissed because she stood up for a student. She was dismissed for breaking policies...five total. Should the School Board have overlooked that because she had been in the district 24 years?

Or the better question is, shouldn’t a teacher that has known the policies for 24 years abide by them?