The district’s response? A polite yet firm “no.” As reported in Michigan Capitol Confidential, according to an Oct. 21st email from the student’s teacher, Karen Bush, Maleszyk’s previous observations last year apparently filled some sort of quota.

State law says yes, Troy says no.

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Maleszyk wasn’t just asking to observe her daughter’s classroom for fun. Michigan law under Act 451 of the Revised School Code explicitly allows parents to observe classroom instruction, provided it’s done within “reasonable restrictions.” Yet, the district seems to have its own definition of the words.

After the teacher’s denial, Maleszyk escalated her concerns to Superintendent Rich Machesky. His response ultimately amounted to a hard pass. He suggested Maleszyk settle for more meetings with the teacher and assistant superintendent instead of firsthand observation and said an opportunity for review of classroom instruction would be available so long as “appropriate guidelines are followed.”

Leveled literacy intervention or leveled up deflection?

Maleszyk’s request stems from her skepticism about the effectiveness of the district’s Leveled Literacy Intervention curriculum, which was designed to support students who are not meeting grade-level expectations in reading and writing. After attempting to address her concerns through email, Maleszyk hoped to see the interventions in action. Instead, she got a masterclass in administrative runaround.

Superintendent Machesky defended the district’s stance, stating that Maleszyk has observed a classroom before – just not her child’s current one.

“Open communication” with a lock on the door.

Maleszyk expressed shock at the district’s refusal, calling it an obstruction of meaningful parental involvement. The school claims to value transparency and parent collaboration, but actions speak louder than words – or emails filled with corporate-speak. For now, Maleszyk’s quest to ensure her child’s education gets the attention it deserves is met with a firmly closed door.

When it comes to supporting students with disabilities, actions matter more than administrative lip service. Maleszyk told Michigan Capitol Confidential, “It’s incredibly disappointing that the district is obstructing meaningful parental participation, particularly when it involves the education of a child with a learning disability.”

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For now, it seems Troy Public Schools has drawn a line – not in the sand, but across the classroom door.