During a recent school board meeting, students and parents voiced significant concerns regarding racism and the effectiveness of standardized testing within the district.

A student from Carl Hayden High School highlighted the pervasive issue of racism in their school, stating that it has become normalized and often ignored by staff. The student expressed frustration over the lack of cultural awareness and the absence of acknowledgment for the Black community, urging the board to address these issues seriously. They called for a survey and a forum to allow Black students to share their experiences in a safe environment, emphasizing the need for the administration to listen and take action.

In a separate discussion, Rebecca Reimers, a parent and employee of the district, criticized the use of the ACT as a measure of student growth and learning. She argued that the ACT does not align with high school standards and is not a meaningful assessment of student capabilities. Reimers likened the situation to using inappropriate tools for specific tasks, suggesting that the ACT is not an effective measure of real-world skills or learning.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for the district to address both racial issues and the appropriateness of its assessment methods, as community members seek a more inclusive and effective educational environment.