Donald Gainsborough, a prominent political savant and leader in policy and legislation at Government Curated, shares his experience and insights on the education system at Havasupai Elementary School in Supai village. Gainsborough discusses the challenges faced by the school, his involvement in the school board, and the impact of various reforms and initiatives on the education of Havasupai students.
Can you share more about your experience attending Havasupai Elementary School? What specific challenges did you face as a student there? How did those challenges impact your education and personal development?
Attending Havasupai Elementary School was challenging on many levels. I experienced bullying and witnessed chronic teacher turnover, which affected not only my academic progress but also my self-esteem and confidence. The lack of consistency in teaching staff meant that we often had teachers who were either too inexperienced or simply not invested in our education. This instability made it difficult for me and my peers to build a solid educational foundation, leading to long-term struggles in subjects like math.
What led you to join the school board at Havasupai Elementary? What changes or improvements are you hoping to advocate for as a board member? How do you plan to address the issues of teacher turnover and bullying?
My own experiences as a student at Havasupai Elementary motivated me to join the school board. I want to advocate for changes that will benefit current students and ensure they do not face the same hardships I did. Addressing teacher turnover is a primary concern; we need to create an environment that attracts and retains quality teachers. This involves improving working conditions, offering competitive salaries, and providing continuous professional development. As for bullying, we need to implement comprehensive anti-bullying programs and ensure there are support systems in place for affected students.
How has the 2017 lawsuit and its settlements impacted the school so far? Can you describe the changes you’ve seen since the lawsuit? What additional improvements do you believe are still needed?
The 2017 lawsuit brought significant changes to Havasupai Elementary. We’ve seen improvements such as the formation of a new school board, the implementation of a structured curriculum, and the addition of new resources like computers and a library. However, there is still much work to be done. We need to continue improving the overall quality of education, address infrastructure issues, and enhance support for students with disabilities.
What was your initial reaction to Trump’s plans to turn the BIE into a school choice program? How do you think school choice will impact a remote community like Supai? Are there particular concerns you have regarding this initiative?
My initial reaction to Trump’s school choice program was one of concern, particularly for remote communities like Supai. While the idea of school choice might seem beneficial in theory, in practice, it could further strain already limited resources and exacerbate existing inequalities. My main concern is that such a program could lead to a lack of accountability and diminish the quality of education for students who remain in public schools.
Can you talk about the teacher turnover at Havasupai Elementary? How does it affect students’ learning and stability? What can be done to attract and retain quality teachers in such a remote location?
Teacher turnover has a profound impact on students’ learning and stability. It disrupts the continuity of education and makes it difficult for students to form lasting relationships with their teachers. To attract and retain quality teachers, we need to offer competitive compensation, provide adequate housing, and create a supportive community for teachers. Additionally, highlighting the unique cultural and natural aspects of Supai can help attract educators who are passionate about making a difference in such a distinctive environment.
What do you think are the most significant obstacles the BIE faces in fulfilling its role? How do these obstacles manifest at a local level, particularly in Supai? What solutions or reforms do you think could help overcome these challenges?
The BIE faces several significant obstacles, including chronic underfunding, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and a lack of accountability. At the local level in Supai, these issues manifest as inadequate resources, delayed materials, and insufficient support for teachers and students. To overcome these challenges, we need increased funding, streamlined administrative processes, and greater transparency and accountability within the BIE.
How did the Covid-19 pandemic impact education at Havasupai Elementary? Were there specific challenges that emerged during the pandemic? How did the bureau’s response to the pandemic affect the students and teachers?
The Covid-19 pandemic had a severe impact on education at Havasupai Elementary. The shift to remote learning was particularly challenging due to limited access to technology and the internet in such a remote area. The bureau’s response was slow and often insufficient, exacerbating the difficulties faced by students and teachers. Many students fell behind academically, and the lack of in-person interaction took a toll on their social and emotional well-being.
What role does community support play in the education of Havasupai children? How can the community be more involved in supporting the school? What initiatives or programs could enhance community engagement?
Community support is crucial in the education of Havasupai children. It provides a sense of belonging and encouragement that can significantly enhance their academic and personal growth. The community can be more involved by participating in school events, volunteering, and providing additional resources for students. Initiatives such as after-school programs, mentorship opportunities, and cultural activities can strengthen the bond between the school and the community, fostering a more supportive and enriching environment for students.
How does the geographic isolation of Supai influence the school’s operation? What logistical challenges does the school face regarding supplies and services? How do these challenges impact the students’ educational experience?
The geographic isolation of Supai greatly influences the school’s operation. Logistical challenges include the difficulty of transporting supplies and services into the village, often relying on mules or helicopters. These delays can lead to shortages and disrupt the educational process. For students, this isolation can limit their exposure to different learning opportunities and resources, making it harder to keep up with peers in more connected areas.
What are your hopes and dreams for your daughters’ education? What qualities or attributes are you looking for in their teachers? What kind of school environment do you believe they need to thrive?
My hopes and dreams for my daughters’ education are that they receive a high-quality, comprehensive education that prepares them for future success. I look for teachers who are passionate, dedicated, and capable of creating engaging and inclusive learning environments. The ideal school environment for my daughters should be supportive, nurturing, and rich in resources, providing them with the tools and opportunities to explore their interests and talents.
Can you elaborate on the current condition of the school’s facilities and resources? What improvements have you seen recently? Are there specific resources or upgrades that are still lacking?
The school’s facilities and resources have seen some improvements recently, such as new computers, a library, and an organized curriculum. However, there are still significant upgrades needed, including better infrastructure, enhanced classroom materials, and more support for special education programs. Ensuring that these resources are consistently available and maintained is key to providing a stable and effective learning environment for the students.
Do you have any advice for our readers?
Advocate for the importance of education and support initiatives that aim to improve school systems, especially in underserved communities. Recognize the unique challenges faced by isolated and marginalized groups and work towards creating policies and programs that address these issues inclusively and sustainably.
