On 12/15/20 I attended the HBUHSD board meeting in order to deplore the policy the district had made, which required all distance teachers to be forced back into the classroom on January 5. Much of the stakeholders, affected teachers, students, parents and staff, were unable to voice their opinion due to the fact that the district has limited public comments to in-person. They had to have liaisons voice their message (who did so wonderfully) instead of being given the opportunity to speak for themselves, as going out in public gatherings is not in best interest of their health. Considering the tentative policies surrounding return to HBUHSD schools for second semester, it is vital that these stakeholders are given the opportunity to speak their opinions at the coming board meeting, while continuing to remain safe. We urge board members to allow these people the opportunity to participate in democracy. It is vital that everyone is given the opportunity to speak, and that teachers, parents, students, and staff, are not unfairly being denied their right to a public comment at these meetings. By signing this petition we can ensure that everyone has their voice heard, and that uncontrollable health issues are NOT a reason to be inhibited from participating in democracy.