Duncan R. “Ray” Gilbert is running for an open seat on the Buena Vista School Board, bringing with him a lifetime of connection to the city’s schools. Gilbert, his wife, children, and now grandchildren have all gone through Buena Vista city public schools, and several of his family members currently work in the division.
“My wife, Debbie, has taught here for 46 years, and my son and son-in-law are both current teachers in our system,” Gilbert said. “The school system is part of our family, and you always help take care of your family. I’m running to do whatever I can to help ensure that our school system stays committed to student growth, retains quality educators and provides a voice for our community.”
Gilbert said two issues stand out as most pressing: deteriorating facilities and the challenge of recruiting and retaining teachers. “PMMS is truly in need of a major renovation, but Kling and Enderly Heights are not in great condition either,” he said. “PMHS is the newest building, but it needs some major repairs as well. Our students deserve better, and we need to do something.”
While he said finances are a challenge, he believes inaction is not an option. “As a city we are strapped for finances and we have to do what is best for our taxpayers as well,” he said. “Fortunately, this will be a joint decision between the School Board and City Council – but one that has to be made. Doing nothing is not an option.”
Gilbert said the division has made meaningful strides in safety, noting the use of security grants for protective glass, cameras, upgraded doors and school resource officers. “I believe that things have been improved and we are moving in the right direction,” he said.
On academics, Gilbert said chronic absenteeism is being addressed through new attendance specialists, while classroom disruptions can be reduced through simple procedural changes. “The principal can minimize interruptions by putting clear regulations into place,” he said. “For example, the secretary can call a specific room rather than making an all-call that interrupts the entire building.”
Gilbert said preparing students for the workforce begins long before graduation. “Each school plays a part in preparing students to be ready for life after school,” he said. “We can strengthen skills by creating partnerships with industries that let students shadow or work part-time in their junior and senior years.”
He said the division can do more to recruit and retain teachers by highlighting the non-financial benefits of working for BVCPS. “We don’t sell ourselves enough,” he said. “For example, the school system pays for individuals to earn graduate degrees, which is a huge financial savings.”
Gilbert said discipline and accountability are essential to a healthy school culture. “Without discipline you have chaos,” he said. “Respect and behavior should hold steadfast. Students and staff should be held accountable, and there should be consequences for not following rules.”
As a potential new board member, Gilbert said he would prioritize accessibility and community involvement. “Parents, staff, and community members need to know you are always available and willing to listen,” he said. “You represent the people, and you should be asking for their input when decisions need to be made.”
RAY GILBERT
