Speakers give the human side to East Valley Institute of Technology controversy

July 13, 2026 - 11:25

For Eastmark High School junior Kendra Andrews, the dispute over transportation to the East Valley Institute of Technology's Mesa campuses is forcing her to choose between pursuing her dream of becoming a veterinary technician and staying at her home school. She is one of many students caught in the middle of a growing controversy over who should pay for buses to shuttle students between their high schools and EVIT's career and technical education programs.

At a recent governing board meeting, several students and parents spoke about the real-world impact of the funding gap. Andrews told the board that without reliable transportation, she cannot attend the classes she needs to start her career. Other students described long commutes, missed classes, and the stress of relying on parents or carpools that often fall through.

The dispute centers on whether the local school districts or EVIT should cover the cost of busing. Some district officials argue they are not required to provide transportation for programs outside their own schools. But for students like Andrews, the issue is not about budgets or legal obligations. It is about access to opportunities that could change their lives.

Several speakers urged the board to find a solution before the start of the next semester. They said the current uncertainty is hurting students who are already working hard to build their futures. As the debate continues, students are left waiting for an answer that will determine whether they can keep learning the skills they need.