While it is true that the United States education system is in dire need of change, there are many other factors affecting student success. Sadly, many of the current practices simply don’t work for today’s students. Thankfully, there are a few things we can do to improve the system, and here are some of them:
First, the curriculum has not changed in nearly a century. While new discoveries, literature, and historical events have improved class content, core subjects have not. STEM education is so lacking in traditional schooling that it is only offered as part of after-school programs and school clubs. For example, a study by McKinsey and Company found that students in majority-black schools were two to five months behind their white counterparts. This gap is alarming, and it is not a good sign for the future of the country.
Lack of involvement from parents. Although teachers and school officials are responsible for providing the best possible education for their students, they can only do so much in a classroom. Parents are required to help their children learn outside of school hours. Additionally, students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds struggle more than those from higher-class families. Additionally, parents may not have enough time to support their children, which causes further problems.
Inclusion of parents. Parents, students, and teachers must be involved in the decision-making process. Children need to feel valued, encouraged, and respected as human beings. Teachers should listen to their students and make necessary changes to the curriculum. Students should be encouraged to take action when they see injustice in the educational system. They should not be afraid to speak up. And parents should be empowered to make the best decisions for their children.
