A personal reflection: My struggles and hopes on the school board

In my tenure on the school board, I've faced a constant and often disheartening battle against the urge to silence my voice. It's been a journey marked by frustration, disappointment, and a growing sense of disillusionment. The stark reality is that the very institution meant to champion student voices often falls short, plagued by a lack of support and respect for the perspectives we bring to the table.

It's not easy to stand up against a current that seeks to drown out dissenting voices. Yet, driven by my unwavering dedication to our students' welfare, I've persisted. Education should be about fostering dialogue, nurturing growth, and empowering the next generation to become critical thinkers. Silencing any member of this conversation, especially a student representative, is a disservice to the very essence of learning.

One of the most disheartening aspects of this journey has been the noticeable void where support and respect for student voices should be. Our students are more than just the recipients of education; they are integral participants who can offer fresh insights and new perspectives. Ignoring their voices not only hampers their educational experience but also undermines the collaborative nature of effective learning.

What has shaken me to my core is the realization of corrupt practices and political maneuvering that occur within the district. The school board should be an exemplar of integrity, placing the needs of students and the principles of education at the forefront. When personal gain and self-interest infiltrate the decision-making process, it erodes the trust that the community has placed in us as stewards of their children's future.

What I've observed is a system that seems to prioritize self-interest over the genuine needs of our students. It's disheartening to see the opinions of parents, students, and teachers relegated to the sidelines, almost as an afterthought. A school board that does not genuinely engage with these vital stakeholders risks becoming an echo chamber, detached from the realities of the educational landscape.

The revelations I've shared aren't meant to foster a sense of hopelessness but to ignite a call to action. It's a plea to parents, students, teachers, and concerned community members to join hands in demanding accountability. Our school board's effectiveness hinges on transparency, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to our students' growth.

It's time to recalibrate our priorities and restore the values that should define our educational system. Let my experiences serve as a rallying cry for change – a change that places students' needs, aspirations, and voices at the center of our efforts. Together, we can rekindle the flame

that ignited the creation of the school board, ensuring that it becomes a true advocate for the education our students deserve.

The path ahead won't be easy, but the pursuit of a school board that genuinely serves our students is a pursuit worth undertaking. Let's unite in driving the transformation our students need, a transformation that will echo positively throughout our community and society at large.

Ben Kolendo is the Student Advisory Representative on the Mat-Su School Board and a senior at Mat-Su Career and Technical High School.