GTECHS from the perspective of a CHS student

Recently, I’ve become intrigued from the responses to Dr. Labat and the CMSD Board of Trustees’ decision concerning a discontinued partnership between GTECHS and the Columbus Municipal School District. The decision itself is great due to the fact that individuals in authoritative positions are finally focusing on the needs of many students in our district. However, there seems to be many people in the community who do not agree with this decision or may even be confused as it relates to what is happening at this moment. From my opinionated perspective, I will not only explain why a great decision has been made but also help each and every person reading this understand the benefit that this decision has on many students.

First, to set the narrative, opportunities that were once not sufficient are prevalent today within CMSD. What you should understand is that the school board is working to better our district, and this marks a step in the right direction. From my understanding, the district is looking to cut ties with GTECHS simply because the amount of funding being used to help provide such a program to students who are “at risk” is unessential at this point in time due to the fact that the same opportunities are now provided to those within the school district. Many individuals fear this decision simply because they think the opportunities won’t be as sufficient to their children or that their kids won’t do well in an environment such as Columbus High School. Although, this wouldn’t be the case at all.

I, as well as others, had the opportunity to apply to GTECHS while transitioning from middle school to high school. However, I decided to attend Columbus High School instead because I wanted to have a traditional high school experience. This included me participating in student government, sports, and other great things that are provided to the student body. I’m currently a dual enrolled Junior at CHS who has been given the opportunity to represent my school at prestigious conferences such as HOBY which is known as the Hugh O’Brian Young Leadership program. Aside from me attending a distinguished conference such as this, many of my peers have been able to as well. As a dual enrolled student, CHS has provided me the opportunity to potentially obtain my Associates Degree by the end of my Senior year. Because of these opportunities, I’ve formed partnerships with many people who will be able to lead and guide me in the right direction towards furthering my education and beginning my career. Those on the outside looking in probably view our school in a pessimistic aspect, but I’m here to tell you that our school is great.

I understand that parents and students are afraid of not getting the same opportunities that they’ve been afforded at GTECHS. Though, students could essentially be granted those same opportunities if not better. Students would still be able to complete dual enrollment courses and be able to remain a member under certain organizations that they may already be a part of. Lastly, students would still have the opportunity to build a family with CHS faculty, staff, and student body. People in the community have obviously forgotten that this decision was made to better the students of CMSD. I honestly think it’s selfish to forget such a thing when bashing the authoritative figures for this decision that they’ve made. Why would you continue to put funding towards a school that serves only 44 students of CMSD when there is well over a 1,000 more that need to be served as well? We have needs that should be fulfilled just as they do.

The funds being used to put GTECHS students of Columbus through that particular program could further aid in supplemental funds for free dual enrollment classes to many students who aren’t able to pay for them on their own. Though students, parents, and others of GTECHS may feel like this is a selfish decision at this time, what they don’t understand is that they would benefit from this as well. The sole purpose of GTECHS was to create a program for “at risk” students. Speaking for myself, I could be considered as “at risk” because I come from a single-parent household. However, I have not let that define me in my academic achievements. Also, CHS has made sure of me and others being an inclusion rather than an exclusion.

Columbus High School is currently rated a “B” school according to the Mississippi Department of Education from school year 2018-2019. Our school boasts many academic achievements and accomplishments from past and present students. Such accolades include the following: recipients of the Gates Millennial Scholarship, scholar athletes who are poised to enter the NBA and NFL, those who have gained recognition in the music industry, multiple students who’ve garnered full scholarships to major colleges and universities, students who have represented CHS from platforms in Washington, D.C. and prestigious summer camps at Mississippi State University, participants of Mississippi Governor’s School, and multiple students who’ve collectively obtained a high school diploma and Associates Degree. Finally, to the students and parents who are apprehensive about joining the CHS family, we would love for you to be a part of this excellence!

Respectfully,

Avani Poindexter

Columbus High School Junior

The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.

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