Students Speak Out on Challenges Facing Schools and Communities By: Eva Long

Nearly half of students say their schools struggle in both academics and behavior. According to recent survey data, 48% of respondents rated student academic performance as fair or poor, while only 17% described it as excellent or very good. Similarly, 49 % said behavior at their schools is fair or poor. “We are truly in a state of crisis,” said Noah Karvelis, an Arizona educator, who pointed to deep cuts in public school funding as a major factor.

At the local level, students are voicing concerns about transportation, safety, and access to resources. Junior Caylee Robinson explained that traffic is a major barrier to getting to school on time. “If I don't leave at the right time every day, I will get stuck in traffic for at least 15 minutes,” she said. Robinson added that sidewalks in her neighborhood are unsafe, making it difficult to walk to school. “I would rather walk to school, but where my neighborhood is, there aren't any safe sidewalks to get to.”

Other students highlighted the cost of living and lack of resources. Senior Maya Denman said financial challenges often affect students' mental health. “Some people are more privileged than others, and that definitely creates some problems and jealousy between students,” she said. Denman noted that tutoring, supplies, and mental health support are limited. “I do not think [mental health] gets talked about enough, because a lot of people hold stuff in.”

For many, local policies are another concern. Senior Abby Ledford pointed to parking policies as an issue that affects students daily. “There’s a lot of people getting wrongly, quote-unquote, convicted for doing something when they just had to get to class,” she explained. Ledford also expressed a desire for greater appreciation of teachers and substitute teachers, along with stronger support for the arts.

Despite these challenges, students described community strengths, including cultural events, fairs, and supportive educators. “Teachers definitely do a good job of making sure their students are okay,” Denman said. Still, students across grade levels agreed that more could be done to improve transportation, mental health resources, and opportunities for teens.