By REP. JAMIE ALLARD
The Anchorage School District is a crash course on the failure of our public schools. It has some of the worst academic performance in the nation.
Superintendent Jharrett Bryantt inherited this mess when he accepted the role of superintendent. He has faced challenges that are undoubtedly compounded by political polarization, racial tension, and ideological propaganda.
Given his desire to improve our communities by investing in students, his recent decision to deny elementary students the chance to meet Dr. Ben Carson, an American hero and symbol of the American Dream, has left many deeply puzzled and disheartened.
When asked to elaborate about his decision during the recent Anchorage School Board meeting, he refused. His equivocation about which policy gives him such authority, and failing to give any real explanation for his actions leaves room for assumptions and speculation.
Was this a politically charged decision? Would he have disinvited Barack Obama? It’s unfortunate that Bryantt refused to reach across the aisle, look past political affiliations, and put our students first. His actions have created more discord and robbed children of an incredible educational experience.
Dr. Carson’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a world-renowned physician is an inspiring story of perseverance and accomplishment. A hardworking single mother gave everything she had to raise him into a man of character, with the grit and determination to achieve the unimaginable. He overcame his disadvantaged childhood, living impoverished in the inner city and nearly failing out of elementary school, to become the youngest Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery in history at Johns Hopkins Hospital, a position he held for 29 years.
He was the first to successfully separate conjoined twins that were attached at the back of the head, and the first to perform an intra-uterine brain surgery. He was awarded the Medal of Freedom, the highest honor a civilian can receive in this country.
He is a former United States Cabinet member, serving as the secretary of Housing and Urban Development. He founded the American Cornerstone Institute, which promotes “faith, liberty, community, and life,” ideals that founded our nation.
That such a distinguished person would take the time to visit Mountain View Elementary School is extraordinary. An inspiring encounter of that magnitude can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
Dr. Carson demonstrates how to make it in life and not let anything stand in your way. It’s just the kind of story needed at one of the most diverse elementary schools in the country. It is beyond disappointing to see you take away an opportunity to expose our students to such a positive role model.
While I understand the challenges of navigating a politically charged environment, it is essential for educational leaders to rise above ideological differences and prioritize well-rounded education and diverse perspectives. Dr. Carson’s achievements and character transcend political affiliations. To veto him based on politics, religion, or personal preference is folly at best and discrimination at worst.
It’s sad that Anchorage’s superintendent couldn’t see that benefits of such an accomplished man being able to inspire each and every one of us. I question if he has the experience or ability to understand the importance of what it means to educate our children.
Education should embody the values of critical thinking, open-mindedness, and intellectual curiosity. Denying students the chance to engage with someone like Dr. Carson shows a lack of understanding about what is helpful to them.
The Anchorage School District has a well-known list of shortcomings when it comes to accomplishing its core mission. Regrettably, it has just added to the list.
Rep. Jamie Allard is a member of the Alaska Legislature, representing Eagle River, and co-chairs the House Education Committee.
