Have you ever wondered if what we have in the Crownpoint Community is even enough to provide everything the youth need? Some students at Crownpoint High School face many challenges such as arriving late to first period or missing school entirely—not because they do not care, but because they do not have reliable transportation. In Crownpoint, New Mexico, issues such as transportation problems, limited access to internet, family responsibilities, and lack of extracurricular opportunities have become major concerns for students and teachers. These problems make it harder for students to attend school regularly, complete assignments, and stay focused in class. This is not just a problem in Crownpoint but all over the Navajo nation. School staff and community members are working to understand why these issues continue to impact students and how the community can help improve student success both inside and outside the classroom.
One major issue affecting students at Crownpoint High School is transportation. Many students travel long distances to get to school each day. Students who do not have rides often arrive late or miss class completely to do other things. Some families do not always have reliable vehicles to take them to school, while others live in rural areas where transportation options are limited. According to freshman Zoey Arviso, “Some students miss school because they don’t always have transportation or someone available to bring them to school.” Teachers state that attendance directly affects grades and classroom participation. Students who miss school often struggle to keep up with assignments and tests, creating additional stress throughout the school year. Another challenge students face is limited internet access and technology at home. Although many assignments require online research, not all students have reliable Wi-Fi or devices available after school hours at home. Some students share devices with their siblings, while others rely on slow internet connections or public Wi-Fi locations to complete homework assignments, that could cause them to turn in there work later.
Science teacher Mrs. Ganzon said, “Technology is important for learning today, but not every student has reliable internet access at home to complete assignments.” She also added, “Some students stay after school just to finish homework.” These technology barriers can place students at a disadvantage compared to students with steady internet access and more educational resources.
As schools continue using online learning tools, access to reliable internet has become more important than ever for academic success. Many students also balance schoolwork with helping family members, working jobs, or caring for their younger siblings. These responsibilities can create stress and make it difficult for students to finish assignments on time. Many teachers do not believe them, and dismiss their explanations as excuses to get away from school work.
Some students may feel overwhelmed trying to manage responsibilities at home and at school, while others struggle quietly because they do not feel comfortable discussing their mental health challenges. Crownpoint High school student Shondiin Morgan explained that support programs can make a difference. “When students know there is someone at school they can talk to, it’s okay to ask for help instead of falling behind on assignments,” she said. Community members believe that additional student support programs and open conversations about mental health could help students feel more supported and acheive or success in school.
Although these challenges continue to affect students at Crownpoint High School, and many people in the community are working together to create positive changes. Teachers, families, and community members continue looking for ways to better support students both academically and personally. With improved resources, stronger support programs, and more safe spaces for teens, students can feel more encouraged to stay focused on their education and graduate successfully. Small improvements can create a positive and long-lasting impact on students, families, and the Crownpoint community.
