A leadership change in the Peoria Unified School District in Arizona has drawn attention following disputes over how misconduct allegations involving former teachers were handled.
On May 5th, the district’s governing board voted 3-2 to remove Heather Rooks as board president during a specially called meeting. Board members Jeff Tobey, Melissa Ewing, and Becky Proudfit supported the decision, while Rooks and Janelle Bowles voted against it. Tobey was then elected as the new president, with Proudfit continuing in her role as clerk.
The decision came after Rooks publicly raised concerns about the district’s response to allegations involving two former Centennial High School teachers, Haley Beck and Angela Burlaka. Rooks had called for an independent third-party investigation to determine whether proper reporting procedures were followed.
According to district records and police reports, Beck was accused of inappropriate conduct involving a student, while Burlaka was reported to have sent explicit material to a minor. Beck was terminated following an internal investigation, and Burlaka resigned and relinquished her teaching credentials. As of now, no criminal charges have been filed against either individual.
On April 28, the board voted to delay a decision on hiring an outside investigator. Rooks later filed formal complaints with the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and the Arizona State Board of Education, citing concerns about transparency and accountability.
District officials, along with legal counsel, stated that they had followed all required procedures and reporting laws. Some board members also expressed concerns about the cost and timing of a separate investigation while legal reviews were ongoing.
Despite the leadership change, Rooks remains on the board and has stated she will continue advocating for student safety. She has also announced plans to seek reelection in 2026 and is running for a seat in the Arizona House of Representatives.
The situation continues to generate discussion about oversight, transparency, and how schools respond to allegations involving student safety.
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