A passionate plea for educational specialization took center stage at the Ketchikan Gateway Borough School Board Special Meeting on April 12, 2025. A school district employee, speaking candidly, emphasized the importance of specialized services for students, particularly in the K-3 grades, highlighting the need for effective Response to Intervention (RTI) programs.

The speaker, who chose to remain anonymous to protect personal relationships, expressed admiration for fellow community members advocating for specialization. They noted that many supporters feel hesitant to voice their opinions publicly. "I respect everyone who came up here and spoken," they stated, acknowledging the courage of those who have shared their views.

Drawing from six years of experience in various school roles, the speaker underscored the challenges faced by RTI teachers, who often find themselves pulled away from their critical roles to substitute teach. This disruption, they argued, undermines the very services that students need. "How are we providing those services if she's subbing every single day?" they questioned, advocating for a system that allows RTI teachers to remain in classrooms where they can directly support students.

The speaker's support for specialization is rooted in a desire to protect secondary education from further cuts, reflecting a broader concern among parents with children across different school levels. "I have four kids school age," they shared, illustrating the diverse educational needs within their family.

As discussions continue, the call for a focused approach to education in Ketchikan highlights the community's commitment to ensuring that all students receive the support they need to thrive. The implications of this meeting could shape the future of educational resources and specialization in the district, making it a pivotal moment for Ketchikan's schools.