As the media and politicians continue to showcase teachers and schools as the scapegoat of a society on a downward spiral of failures, I can't help but think back on my own education. I am a product of public school and while I have multiple imperfections, I am a success. I am successful because my parents stood behind me, supported me and guided me in a home filled with love, morals, values and discipline.
When I struggled in school, my parents sat at the kitchen table and worked with me until the skill was understood. I was sent to school knowing my colors, numbers, ABC's, how to tie my shoes, my address, phone number and the difference between right and wrong. My parents made sure I knew the difference between losing and winning with grace. I also knew in order to obtain anything that I had to work for it because no one was standing at the door with a magic wand saying you will achieve! Instead I knew I would achieve if I believe and WORK. Remember The Little Engine that Could, I think I can, I think I can! Thanks for that one mom!
The contrast now is that many parents don't partake in the education of the whole child. Children need their minds, souls and hearts conditioned before entering school. Our society has neglected to continue to pursue the importance of education before children step in the front door of preschool or kindergarten. Parents have become friends of their children beginning in the toddler years and when this cycle continues discipline is thrown out the door along with hard work, dedication and the value of education.
Teachers deal with a large spectrum of students in a classroom and failure is not something we seek out as the media has recently portrayed. Teachers don't sit on their asses waiting for students wanting to learn or parents wanting to help. Teachers put forth their best and sometimes even more to fill in the gaps. The school often provides the one place of security and love while teaching the basics of state standards.
I think it is time for our society to take a long hard look in the mirror and face the cold hard facts. It is time to value education and for parents to begin the process the day a child exits the womb! We are a partnership but we need everyone to realize the stakes are high and recently we are failing together.
Thanks Mom and Dad for giving me the foundation I needed to be successful and being a part of my education. Love you.
Well said. You're right - parents need to be responsible for their childrens education. It needs to start at home! Too many parents want to be friends because it's easier than actually parenting. Why have kids then???? I don't get it. I grew up being chased around the kitchen with a wooden spoon, forced to have a bedtime, and forced to earn only A's and B's if I valued my life. We need more strict parenting! Kids learn their bad behavior before they even enter the school system so if it doesn't start at home when they're little then the kids come to school disrespectful and troubled and behind. Then the parents blame the teachers. It's time to start pointing the finger back at the parents....
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