Petition for Greater Safety, Transparency, and Accountability at Saint Ambrose Catholic School

As concerned parents and members of the Woodbury community, we believe Saint Ambrose Catholic School should always reflect the values of safety, integrity, and open communication. Many families have raised serious concerns about whether the current direction of leadership is meeting those expectations. The absence of clear communication in critical moments has significantly undermined trust.

1. School Safety
In an era when campus security is a nationwide priority, parents have repeatedly asked what measures are in place to protect students and staff. Many of us feel the answers have not provided sufficient clarity or reassurance, and we believe additional action and stronger communication are necessary.

Our community needs leadership that can make sound, timely decisions in critical situations when every moment matters.

2. Communication During Safety Concerns
When potential threats arise, timely and transparent communication is essential. Many parents felt frightened and uncertain because they did not receive prompt or detailed information about what was happening, what precautions were being taken, or how their children were being protected.

Families should never be left in the dark in situations involving student safety. Clear protocols and reliable communication must be a priority moving forward.

3. Financial Transparency
Tuition and fees have increased, yet families and supporters have limited insight into how funds are allocated. Greater visibility into budgeting, compensation, and financial priorities would help rebuild trust and demonstrate responsible stewardship.

4. Communication and Accountability
A healthy school community depends on open dialogue. Parents and staff should feel heard and respected when raising concerns. Stronger, more collaborative engagement between leadership and families is essential.

5. Organizational Structure and Security Leadership
Protecting students and staff requires dedicated expertise and clear authority. We believe the school would benefit from establishing a qualified, experienced Security Director role responsible for threat assessment, emergency preparedness, coordination with local law enforcement, and consistent communication with families.

Creating a position with defined responsibility for safety would provide accountability, ensure best practices are followed, and remove uncertainty about who is empowered to act when concerns arise.

6. Commitment to Enhanced Security Measures
In addition to leadership changes, we urge the adoption of stronger, visible security measures. Parents have repeatedly requested practical steps to harden the campus and improve prevention and response. These requests have too often been met with hesitation or denial.

We believe proactive action is necessary. Waiting for perfect conditions or absolute certainty is not a strategy when student safety is at stake. Taking reasonable, preventative measures now will help restore confidence and demonstrate that protecting children is the highest priority.

Our Call for Change
To restore confidence and move our school forward, we believe leadership changes are necessary. We respectfully request that the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis conduct an immediate review of parish and school leadership, including the roles of the Head Priest and Principal, and take appropriate action to ensure accountability and the appointment of leaders who are committed to:

• Prioritizing student safety and well-being

• Practicing transparent and accountable financial management

• Communicating honestly and working collaboratively with parents and staff

Saint Ambrose can and should be a place where faith, integrity, and accountability guide every decision.

If you share these concerns, we invite you to add your name to this petition.

Signatures will be shared with decision-makers but will not be made public.

Concerned Parents at Saint Ambrose Catholic School    Contact the author of the petition