Several of the teachers in the numerous complaints about Sid Miller referred to a stark contrast between appearances and reality. One former teacher writing last year, called it a dog and pony show and said the principal’s personal insults and intimidation inspired in her the courage to move on (“the best thing this ‘leader’ ever did for me).
Ms. McCoy Daily is credited with charming the UFT reps into a cozy setup in which all staff concerns “fall on deaf ears.”
The principal similarly impressed the educators at Hunter College who reported glowingly: Her dedication to the students and staff is evident in the bright smiles visible on their faces as you walk through the buildings of Sid Miller Academy and in their passion for the work they do.
Comments written during the summer months of last draw a different picture. “The experience has been nothing short of toxic. The leadership team is more concerned with maintaining their power and image than with supporting students and staff. They prioritize test scores over student well-being, ignore bullying and harassment, and retaliate against those who speak out. The lack of transparency and communication is staggering, and the favoritism and discrimination are blatant. Teachers are micromanaged, and their autonomy is stripped away. The turnover rate is high, and morale is low. Students are treated as mere numbers, not individuals. Avoid this school at all costs unless you want your child to suffer in a toxic environment. I wish I had done my research before getting trapped in this nightmare.“
A different teacher wrote: “Teachers and paraprofessionals are out a lot because of so many stressful situations in the school building being mishandled. This school is a revolving door. I have seen teachers come and go because of harassment and unfair treatment. This school is all about show and tell but underneath all of that is nothing but misery and sadness.”
Another staff member chimed in, “The principal puts on a good show to outsiders. A lot of people don’t know the real her and its quite sad that she gets away with such horrible behavior. She is always making reference to God but has the most evil heart and should be ashamed of herself!”
Comments, additions and rebuttals welcome!