Students and parents urge AUHSD to reverse nonrenewal of Lexington band director Marcel Berrigan

Dozens of students and family members told the Anaheim Union High School District Board of Trustees on March 11 that the district should reconsider a notice of nonrenewal for Lexington Junior High band director Marcel Berrigan.

Aileen Yu, introduced by the board as a student speaker, told trustees, "I believe mister Berrigan is crucial to Lexington's success." Several classmates said Berrigan rebuilt a program that had been destabilized and that his teaching and mentorship kept students engaged and improved morale.

"I'm here to persuade you to extend mister Berrigan's contract and perhaps make him a permanent staff," Amelia Wen told the board, describing how the director made her want to continue with advanced band. Parents and other community members echoed those calls. Kristen Larent Liriano, a Kennedy and Walker parent who also said she has been deeply involved with band programs, urged the board: "I urge you as the board to reconsider this intent of non renewal. Please prevent any more setbacks to this community."

Several speakers provided program details and personal examples of impact: increased instrument proficiency, participation in advanced ensembles, and extracurricular stability following earlier staffing disruptions. Patricia Flores, speaking on behalf of multiple families, said Mr. Berrigan was "chosen because the district leadership recognized his integrity" and warned that removing him now would "cause a necessary disruption for both students and families."

Board members listened during the public comment period and thanked speakers for coming. The transcript and meeting minutes show no formal vote or public board action on the staff decision about Mr. Berrigan's contract during the meeting. Public testimony and requests were entered on the record; trustees did not announce any immediate reversal or personnel motion.

Next steps: The issue remains a personnel matter; the transcript indicates the board later recessed to closed session as scheduled. The record does not show a final decision at the March 11 public meeting.