The conversation surrounding public education is saturated with terms that often leave us confused: failing schools, Common Core, new math, and teaching to the test. While these phrases are commonly used, many of us struggle to grasp their true implications. The prevailing sentiment seems clear: America’s public schools are failing. However, the reality is much more complex. The truth is, they are not failing; instead, we are failing them—and, consequently, our children.
In a previous article, I explored the notion that public schools are not the culprits of our educational crisis; rather, we are the ones letting them down. We have been misled by a narrative that paints teachers and schools as ineffective, and we’ve accepted this flawed perspective without question. This mindset has brought us to our current predicament.
We preach about the importance of “thinking local,” often ignoring the fact that while our children’s schools may be thriving, others are in dire need of assistance. We choose to live among those who share our backgrounds and values, pouring our energies into well-resourced PTAs while neglecting schools that struggle for volunteers and funding. This systemic inequity is a problem we have allowed to persist, and it’s time we take responsibility for our role in it. We must recognize that this “think local” approach has disproportionately impacted the most vulnerable children, which is simply unacceptable.
Let’s be clear: every child, not just those born into wealthier families or residing in affluent neighborhoods, deserves access to a top-notch education. Children do not choose their circumstances; they are blank slates deserving of the same opportunities. If you’re fortunate enough to have your kids in a good school or even in private education, it’s imperative to acknowledge that we have an even greater responsibility to work towards fixing the system.
How Can We Address This Long-Standing Issue?
The first step is to educate ourselves. Despite the abundance of self-proclaimed activists, many people lack a fundamental understanding of effective teaching methods and the intricacies of our education system. For example, few recognize how property taxes disproportionately affect public schooling, or the detrimental impact that standardized testing has on minority students.
This lack of understanding perpetuates misconceptions that feed into our unjust views on education. Financial implications, such as the funding losses public schools face when students transition to private or charter schools, further compound the issue. In states like Wisconsin, public schools lose significant funding when students leave, creating a cycle of decline even as they must maintain the same level of service.
To make a difference, parents and community members must stay informed and seek diverse perspectives. Engage with educators directly and listen to their concerns. Follow respected education platforms, like Modern Family Blog, which provide valuable insights into these pressing issues. Instead of fixating on test scores or school rankings, take the initiative to visit schools and converse with the staff who navigate these challenges daily.
Addressing Systemic Issues
We cannot ignore the impact of systemic racism, inadequate mental health services, and socioeconomic disparities in education. Acknowledging our own biases is crucial. For instance, research shows that white parents often favor neighborhoods with predominantly white populations. To combat this tendency, community advocate Lisa Johnson suggests engaging in activities that promote inclusivity, such as volunteering at local organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs or YMCAs, which can expose children to diverse groups and support community enrichment.
Within our own neighborhoods, we can facilitate awareness and foster diversity. Education researcher Maria Thompson recommends organizing events that showcase diverse speakers and collaborating with other schools to create shared experiences, such as book fairs and cultural events.
Be an Advocate for Change
It is essential that we stop enabling a system that divides resources between the affluent and the underprivileged. Be an advocate for change. Vote informed—not just during presidential elections, but during midterms and local contests. And beyond voting, champion causes that improve health services, education funding, and classroom sizes, especially in economically disadvantaged areas. Research indicates that larger class sizes negatively affect learning outcomes, particularly for low-income and minority students.
Remember, these are children. It’s not only illogical but also cruel to place blame on them for their situations. Instead of solely focusing on your own children’s education, broaden your perspective to consider the needs of all students. Volunteer in under-resourced schools, send support to teachers, or contribute funds for field trips and necessary supplies in struggling schools. Real change requires stepping outside our comfort zones and recognizing how the educational system impacts every child.
Are you ready to take on this challenge?