Retaliation When Higher Ups Don't "Like You" - Principal Rocketship Public Schools Employee Review

Rocketship has changed significantly over the past few years, and unfortunately, not in positive ways. While the work has always been challenging, this past school year under new regional leadership was especially difficult. In previous years, there was strong HR support, and employees felt comfortable raising concerns and seeking guidance. During the 2022–23 school year and part of 2023–24 our assigned HR partner was highly supportive and accessible. That support has since diminished since April 2025. Staff have been discouraged from engaging with HR, and communication and professional development opportunities, such as informal HR sessions (brown bags), are no longer offered. Leadership has become more hierarchical and less approachable, which has affected morale. Many employees feel hesitant to raise concerns due to fear of negative repercussions, particularly given the strong support the region’s leader receives from senior NET leadership. After nearly ten years with the organization, I ultimately decided to leave midyear due to these ongoing challenges. I continue to deeply value the students and the mission, and I remain grateful for the meaningful work I was able to do. However, sustainable success requires leadership that fosters trust, transparency, and mutual respect.