July 10, 2024
As a member of the Hopi Nation, I am deeply invested in the well-being and future of our community, especially our youth. The resignations of the Hopi High School principal Lynn Fredericks along with ESS director, Dr. Melba Martin, is a significant movement that offers a glimmer of hope for students, parents, and the entire community.
For too long, there have been concerns about the direction and leadership at Hopi High School. The principal and ESS director play crucial roles in shaping the educational environment, ensuring that our children receive not only a high-quality education but also one that respects and incorporates our Hopi values, traditions, and culture. Under Fredericks’ tenure, many in the community felt that these essential aspects were being neglected or inadequately addressed.
With Fredericks’ resignation, we have an opportunity to chart a new course for our school. This change opens the door for new leadership that can better align with the needs and aspirations of our students and families. We envision a principal who will be more attuned to the unique cultural and educational needs of our children, someone who will work collaboratively with teachers, parents, and the community to foster a supportive and enriching learning environment.
Our hopes for the future include:
- Cultural Integration: We seek a leader who will prioritize the integration of Hopi culture, language, and traditions into the curriculum, ensuring that our children stay connected to their heritage while receiving a modern education.
- Academic Excellence: We desire a principal who will uphold high academic standards and provide the necessary resources and support for students to succeed, preparing them for higher education and future careers.
- Community Engagement: We want someone who values open communication and collaboration with parents and the broader community, creating a transparent and inclusive decision-making process.
- Supportive Environment: We need a principal who understands the importance of a nurturing and safe school environment, where students feel respected, valued, and motivated to learn.
The resignation of Lynn Fredericks marks a turning point. It’s a chance for our community to come together, voice our expectations, and play an active role in selecting a new principal who embodies the qualities and vision we hold dear. This moment is a beacon of hope, signaling the potential for positive change and a brighter future for Hopi High School and its students. Together, we can ensure that our children receive the education they deserve, one that honors our past and prepares them for a promising future.
Moreover, the resignation of Dr. Melba Martin offers hope that our students will be given a fair shot at learning and ensure we are held accountable with the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). For too long our students with disabilities were left out and once they were graduates of the Hopi High School, they did not have the skills and opportunities to continue their paths to adulthood. Many often remain on the Hopi Nation without access to higher education and/or jobs that they could have trained for in high school.
Let’s encourage our board members to continue looking out for our children and hope we are able to recruit/retain leaders who are truly vested in our communities.
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