Building Bridges for Saint Louis Parents with Krystal Barnett

October 7, 2021

“It’s time for us to take a stand to say, even if I don’t know, I’m willing. Even if I haven’t been told yet, I’m willing to listen. Even if I haven’t been doing it, I’m willing to try.”

Krystal Barnett

Welcome to Navigate STL Schools, a podcast.  

Today’s guest is Krystal Barnett, the founder of Bridge 2 Hope. Krystal has been a northside Saint Louis resident for 38 years; she’s a mother to two children and the leader of a booming new campaign to ensure every child in Saint Louis has access to quality education. In this episode, Krystal sits down with Staci to discuss how Bridge 2 Hope aims to help parents become advocates for their children, so they can get the education they deserve. 

They discuss:

  • Krystal’s personal K-12 experience
    • Attended a parochial school and faced racism, and failed the 3rd grade. 
    • Her mother transferred Krystal to Saint Louis public schools, where she became part of the desegregation program. 
    • She attended the Ladue School District, a predominantly white school, where she was treated differently because she was a part of the desegregation program.
  • What is Bridge 2 Hope?
    • There is a lack of partnership between parents and school administration.
    • Bridge 2 Hope aims to help parents build bridges and become advocates for their child’s education. 
    • The initiative aims to educate parents and connect them with the resources they need to become involved and show up for their child’s education. 
    • They help parents identify their “why” for fighting for their kids’ education.
  • Unexpected Encounters
    • The “gatekeepers” who keep parents out of the process are black and brown leaders, which surprised Krystal.
    • It was evident to Krystal that leadership is closing the doors on parents. 
  • Why is it important for parents to be involved in their child’s education? 
    • If you’re not involved in the process, other people are making decisions for your children. 
    • When you don’t show up, others are making assumptions about why you’re not there. 
    • It’s time for parents to stand up and learn, listen, and advocate for their children.
  • Biggest challenges facing children in education in Saint Louis?
    • District leaders are unwilling to partner with parents. 
    • They want to continue the status quo pre-COVID. 
    • All children are behind post-COVID, and black and brown children are even further behind. 
  • How does Bridge 2 Hope teach parents to speak up and advocate for their children?
    • Fellowship is the first step. Bridge 2 Hope teaches parents how the system operates, school data, and parents’ rights. 
    • The second step is teaching parents to take action.
  • What should parents consider when choosing a school for their child?
    • Relationship with the educator. 
    • Did the administrators answer your questions?
    • Look at the data
    • Pay attention to your child’s response. 
    • Everyone’s education level is not the same, so communication is crucial.
  • Challenges facing parents 
    • Parents are juggling multiple jobs.
    • There is not enough child support.
    • Housing and mental health are also concerns.
    • Bridge 2 Hope assists parents in these areas so they can focus on their child’s education.
  • What gives you hope for the future of education in Saint Louis?
    • Parents are coming out to take action. 
    • The myth is being dispelled that the parents in Saint Louis don’t care. 
    • Parents will keep coming and keep showing up. 
  • What’s most important for parents to know at this moment?
    • The city of Saint Louis is ready for parents to stand up. 
    • Parents have to show up, and they have to do it together.
  • What can Navigate STL School do to help parents?
    • They’re already doing it. Navigate does something that the city’s never been able to do, exposing parents to school options.
    • Their data is not common knowledge to most parents. 
    • Parents can now use Navigate STL schools, so they know their options.
  • Additional Info
    • Bridge 2 Hope is for every family that wants to help, regardless of location, color, district, etc. 
    • Bridge 2 Hope can be reached on their website, Facebook, and Instagram. 

Resources: