During the Ketchikan Gateway Borough School Board Special Meeting on April 12, 2025, educators voiced strong concerns regarding proposed changes to the school system, particularly the impact of specialization and staffing reductions on student experience and community cohesion.

One teacher, reflecting on the emotional toll of recent changes, expressed deep opposition to the specialization model, which has led to divisions within the community. She highlighted the distress of students who fear being separated from their siblings as they transition to different schools. This sentiment underscored a broader call for unity and healing within the community, emphasizing the need for a supportive educational environment.

Another educator, Jillian Pollock from Howling Elementary, raised alarms about the potential reduction of a music teacher position. Pollock, who has taught music across multiple schools, shared her experiences of the challenges faced in maintaining quality education while managing a high volume of students. She pointed out that the lack of consistent instruction and strong relationships with students has negatively affected the music programs at schools like Point Higgins and Fawn Mountain. Pollock urged the board to consider the implications of staffing decisions on the quality of arts education, which she believes is vital to the community.

The discussions highlighted a critical moment for the Ketchikan Gateway Borough School Board as they navigate the complexities of educational restructuring. The voices of educators reflect a community deeply invested in the well-being of its students and the quality of education they receive. As the board considers these changes, the emphasis remains on fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that prioritizes student relationships and educational integrity.