In a recent meeting of the Gary Community School Corporation, community members voiced significant concerns regarding the state of local education and the ongoing search for a new superintendent. The discussions highlighted issues of miseducation linked to the devaluation of marginalized communities, particularly those of color, and called for a more localized approach to leadership within the school system.

Mary Ann Rivas, a retired teacher, emphasized the urgent need for support in schools, particularly for special needs children, and criticized the lack of local representation in the superintendent search. She noted that the community has been under external management for nearly a decade without substantial progress, urging the board to consider candidates who understand the local context.

Robert Bugs echoed these sentiments, expressing frustration over the lack of transparency in the superintendent selection process. He questioned whether local candidates were being considered and criticized the board for not involving community voices in decision-making. Bugs also raised concerns about the handling of elementary school suspensions, seeking clarity on the criteria used.

Linda Collins, a long-time resident, encouraged collaboration and rapport-building between the board and the community, regardless of the superintendent's origin. She stressed the importance of qualified leadership and the need for community engagement in the educational process.

Additionally, Sandra Galvez brought attention to an upcoming overhaul of the Indiana school system, which will shift from an academic to a job-based curriculum by 2027. She questioned the preparedness of the new superintendent to manage this transition and its implications for college readiness among students.

The meeting underscored a collective call for accountability, transparency, and a commitment to local engagement in shaping the future of education in Gary. As the board moves forward with the superintendent search, community members remain vigilant, advocating for a leadership that reflects and understands their unique challenges and needs.