Mathias Busekist
The student’s parent alerted the school that Calhoun called the student by a preferred name.
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In a move that’s sparked a lot of debate, a Florida teacher was let go for calling a student by their chosen name without getting permission from the student’s parents.
According to PEOPLE, Melissa Calhoun, who taught at Satellite High School in Brevard County, was informed her contract wouldn’t be renewed for the 2025–2026 school year.
The reason? She used a name different from the student’s legal name without a signed parental consent form, as required by a Florida law introduced in the 2023–2024 school year.
The law mandates that teachers must have parental approval before using any name other than what’s on official records. After a parent raised concerns, the school conducted an investigation, during which Calhoun acknowledged using the student’s preferred name.
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The school district emphasized the importance of parental rights, stating that teachers should collaborate with parents to support students academically. They also mentioned that the state is reviewing Calhoun’s teaching credentials due to the incident.
However, many in the community are rallying behind Calhoun.
A Change.org petition advocating for her reinstatement has garnered over 14,000 signatures. Supporters describe her as a dedicated educator who made a positive impact on her students’ lives.
