Concerned community teachers, parents and community members voiced their opinions about Lois Kaneshiki, a school board member for the Hollidaysburg School District.

 

Kaneshiki remains under fire for remarks associating kindergarten teachers and babysitters, and for questioning the value of early learning.

 

Kaneshiki is also the Chair Person of the Blair County Republican Party.

 

Jennifer Russell-Long, a member of the Blair County Republican Committee, said although she serves under Kaneshiki on the GOP committee, she disagrees with Kaneshiki’s leadership.

 

Security was on site, turning away the general public and going the extra step by placing flares at the parking lot entrance.

 

About a dozen protestors showed up to protest.

 

According to the invitation, the initial intent was to shine a bad light on Kaneshiki, but a stronger goal surfaced.

 

When asked what they hope will come from the gathering, numerous protesters urged for Kaneshiki’s resignation.

 

WTAJ has repeatedly asked Kaneshiki to go on camera to address the community’s concerns.

 

But she has denied the request.

 

Allison Church, a student at Penn State Altoona, said she’s also tried to reach out to the board member.

 

“She actually blocked me on Facebook when i tried to write her,” Church said.

 

Church said at this point she believes enough damage has already been done by the school board member.

 

 “Right now i don’t think there’s anything she can really do to make up for her actions,” Church said.

 

The next school board meeting for the Hollidaysburg district is Wednesday, October 19th.

 

The meeting is open to the public.