A rumor circulating among staff at Winslow Junior High School and the confusion and fallout that followed took center stage during call to the public at the Winslow Unified School District Governing Board meeting on April 8, where three educators addressed the issue publicly, including one who took responsibility and issued an apology.
During call to the public, Drew Luzier, an eighth grade social studies teacher, was the first to speak, pushing back directly against claims that a recent staff presentation involving Winslow Junior High School Principal Travis Dooley contained inappropriate material. Luzier told the board he had been present at the meeting in question and described the rumor as “categorically false,” explaining that the presentation had been part of an effort to lighten the mood following a difficult administrative decision not to fill a soon to be vacant assistant principal position.
Dooley, who recently stepped into the principal role following the death of former principal Deb Lopez after a battle with cancer, “conducted himself with composure and professionalism throughout this entire episode,” Luzier said, adding that the spread of misinformation had unfairly undermined his credibility.
Carlos Guerrero, an eighth grade algebra teacher, followed with a similar message, emphasizing how quickly misinformation can spread in a small community like Winslow. Guerrero said he was also present at the meeting and that the administration acted professionally, warning that rumors like the one circulating could have “major repercussions.” He urged staff to verify information before repeating it, noting that unverified claims can cause unnecessary harm and division.
The situation culminated in a public apology from Tiffany Kolomitz, a first year English language arts teacher at the junior high, who acknowledged that her own presentation on March 27, had contributed to the misunderstanding. Kolomitz said she included an image intended to help staff process change and move forward following the administrative decision but failed to consider how it might be interpreted or to have it reviewed beforehand.
“I unintentionally upset my colleagues… I take full responsibility for that oversight,” Kolomitz said, adding that the image was not meant to introduce politics or offend anyone but rather to support staff during a difficult moment. She said she is committed to rebuilding trust and being more thoughtful in future communication.
Board members did not respond to the comments, in accordance with public comment rules.
Following the public comment period, the board moved into its regular agenda, beginning with a series of recognitions honoring staff for their work across the district. Larry Oso, a district transportation employee, was praised for his reliability in covering routes, assisting in the shop and helping keep vehicles safe and operational, while March’s certified Employee of the Month, Jerron Jordan, was recognized for fostering a classroom culture built on respect, responsibility and kindness. Substitute teacher Susan Saint Germain was also honored as Substitute of the Quarter, noted for her consistency and strong relationships with students.
The board then unanimously approved the consent agenda before moving into old business, where members signed off on a new U.S. history textbook for Winslow High School that had been on public display since January. Board members said the book was well organized and thorough prior to approval. The board also approved new curriculum for Navajo Language I and II courses, which had been available for review since February.
In new business, the board approved its annual agreement with the Navajo County Special Services Consortium for the 2026–27 school year, continuing services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech language support for special education students.
In the superintendent’s report, Superintendent Dr. Amber Martinez, thanked staff for their work during the testing season and highlighted upcoming events, including a Winslow High School theater production of “Peter and the Starcatcher” and the district’s second annual Diné language competition scheduled for April 23.
Board members closed the meeting with brief remarks recognizing staff efforts as the school year nears its end, along with updates on spring sports, graduation preparations and a call for volunteers and donations for an upcoming track meet hospitality room.
The board announced its next meeting for April 22 before entering executive session. The meeting later adjourned after returning to open session with no additional action reported.
In other business, the board:
* Approved hiring Emmanuel Bollin and Ciara Garcia as bus drivers.
* Approved the resignation of Zachary Atchison, a paraprofessional.
* Approved a retire/return to work order for Bryan Larson.
* Approved transferring Kylee Allen from substitute to special needs teacher and Stephanie Westover from paraprofessional to focus zone paraprofessional.
* Approved summer work for Camelia James.
* Approved the following fundraisers: Student council, concession at glow dance, face painting and photo booth; Drama Club, ‘Peter and the Starcatcher Play’; and Yearbook Club, the sale of Arizona Green Tea and Otter Pops.
