Amber Freese has launched a Change.org petition calling for greater transparency from her child’s school district and the resignation of Superintendent Dr. Mike Neubeck.

Freese says she is deeply frustrated with the district's leadership, particularly over what she sees as a lack of transparency about the district's financial situation. Concerns grew after the district made significant budget cuts at the end of last school year, only for auditors to later report that the district was $2 million over budget.

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Freese and other parents are upset by what they perceive as a lack of communication about the district’s financial status and future plans. She says meetings meant to address these concerns have been abruptly canceled without explanation, leaving parents and committee members without answers.

“Though it’s clear there’s a financial crisis, there’s been a complete lack of transparency,” Freese said. “Important meetings are being canceled with little notice, and we’re left in the dark.”

Last month, Byron Public School District voters were asked to approve a referendum that would increase funding by $800 per student each year for the next ten years.

Dr. Neubeck explained that if the referendum wasn't approved, the district would have to make cuts that could affect the quality of education.

Before the election, former school board member Chris Schmit spoke with KTTC News, raising concerns about the district’s financial transparency.

Schmit explained that he used to receive "monthly reconciliation reports" tracking all the district’s financial transactions, but those reports stopped when Dr. Neubeck took over as superintendent.

The referendum did not pass.

Petition Calling for Byron, Minnesota Superintendent's Resignation

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Amber Freese started the online petition calling for Dr. Neubeck’s resignation, claiming that his actions—or lack of them—are directly affecting the quality of education in the district. She is urging others to join her in demanding accountability and transparency for the sake of the children’s future.

More than 200 people have signed the petition.

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Niche.com has rankings of the best schools around the country. You can see rankings based on school districts, public and private schools. This list breaks down the 20 best public schools in Minnesota.

Gallery Credit: Carly Ross

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