When I worked for the Montezuma-Cortez School District in the late ’90s and early 2000s, schools unified our community. Student success was front and center. At least, that’s the way it felt. Yes, we had our struggles. But we shared this commonality. This vision.

Since I returned last spring, I’ve enjoyed seeing friends from the old days and meeting new ones. As always, the heart of Cortez is strong as ever. I love it here. But there’s been a shift, a divide that I’m trying to understand.

I was surprised to hear political differences surfacing in heated discussions about education. Previously, Southwest Colorado felt more nonpartisan. Now, education here is politicized, a staging place for people to dig in their heels on how our students learn best. Many of us hold strong opinions about Critical Race Theory, Rainbow Club and meeting spaces for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and LGBTQ students.

Don’t get me wrong, these groups and concerns are all valid and relevant. But let’s not get distracted from our most important, collective goals. High student achievement and opportunities. These are my priorities. Recently released low test scores are the equivalent of a superintendent’s four-alarm fire. We can – and must – do better by our schoolchildren.

Let’s not lose our way. Controversial, partisan-charged debates take us from our most-important goals. My job is to get us on track. And bridge that divide.

One way to boost student achievement is to support teachers. At first glance, this may not correlate. But it actually does. No doubt, teachers have tough jobs. So parents, help us make their jobs easier and school life better for students. For example, get your children to school – and on time. I can’t overemphasize the significance of showing up. This helps teachers immensely.

Next, engage your students in homework and projects. Whether schoolchildren are learning colors and numbers or writing high-school level essays, parents need to know where students are in their studies. It’s easier to hold our kids accountable if we know whether – and exactly where – they’re struggling. It gives us ideas on how to help.

Within the school district, we are encouraging teachers to build teams, support each other and collaborate. Match lessons with state standards. We are implementing strategies for better results.

Outside the district, I’m asking parents and community members to be that outer layer of support. Make your presence known at games, plays and concerts.

Be the backup. Give our teachers the benefit of any doubts. We have committed teachers who care about and are invested in your children’s success.

This is just one way to boost scores and grow successful, confident students. In my experience, it’s huge. It’s definitely effective. Even more so than winning an elected seat on the school board. For community members with visions of serving on the board, we encourage you. But don’t bring your pet projects. Instead, bring your “A” game for student achievement. That’s what our district really needs.

If you would like to talk, I’m happy to meet with you or your group to discuss education.

Another request. Please model respect for teachers in front of your schoolchildren. They deserve it. When you have an opportunity, say thank you to teachers, administrators, bus drivers and all who care for your children during the day. It means more than you may realize.

If you need a prompt on how to talk about respect, a timely way is in conversations about veterans. We’ll be out there at the parade on Friday, showing our appreciation for those who served. It may seem small but it’s actually not. It’s where we start.

Tom Burris is superintendent of the Montezuma-Cortez School District. Email him at tburris@cortez.k12.co.us.