As a teacher in the SLC School District, I was interested in the story published on Jan. 29 by Julie Jag concerning Utah’s school choice policy. I recognize this past year has been difficult for all of us, each in our own way. Yet, while complaining about taking children to multiple different schools outside of the district, this mother has failed to see beyond her own nose.
Over the past year, some students have worked full time jobs to provide for their family members while attending online classes. Others have had to care for younger siblings and forgo attending classes altogether as their parents work multiple jobs. Many of my students do not have wi-fi or computers of their own, so they have been entirely reliant on the SLC School District for technology to access their education. These students have taken responsibility for their own education without an available parent to run to their side when they forget their password.
Instead of voicing concerns about enrollment lines at Olympus High, consider the fact that young students have had to stand in line for food when their parents have lost their jobs. Rather than worry about the time it takes to drive your kids to your choice of different schools, be grateful for your car, your driver’s license, a full gas tank, and your husband working from home to help with childcare. Before you complain about dealing with technology problems, be grateful for your internet access, a computer for each child, and a home that can house your children while they learn.
The pandemic has been a challenge for everyone, but it’s not hard to recognize that some struggles go far beyond the issue of the privilege of choosing a new school for your kids.
Holly Barton, M.Ed., Salt Lake City