The decline of American Education

"The only thing that interferes with my learning is my education." - Albert Einstein

Mr. Einstein may have been on to something when he made the previous quote; however, in modern American society the problem runs far deeper. He was quite possibly more accurate when he stated, "Education is what remains after one has forgotten everything he learned in school". Many people believe the complete lack of independent thought presented in young people today is a direct result of the current public education system, both primary and secondary. While this may be true in many regards, the unfortunate truth lies deeper. When I was a child, my parents taught me responsibility. My father instilled an excellent work ethic, and both my parents taught me to make wise decisions. This education at home translated into a much stronger focus and determination on my education at school. Conversely, most kids today have parents at home who, while making their best efforts, tend to either let their children run completely without guidance or they spoil the child to the point that they become unable to function in society. I truly feel that this problem has precipitated from generations of failure of the family structure. In the 60's Americans began to loosen their morals and strength of character in a dramatic manner compared to any other time in American history. This weakening of morals naturally led to a much greater incidence of single parent homes and begat the era of "latchkey kids". Naturally, a child left to himself for hours after school will typically not make the best decisions, and his schoolwork will almost certainly suffer.

How do we correct this troubling trend?

Great question. I'm glad you asked. Fortunately, all hope is not lost. Many families have maintained a tight knit and supportive structure. Many children are being taught not only what to think, but also how to think. The only solution is one that will take generations, and it begins with you. We all need to, of course, take care of our own family first, but their are many opportunities to influence others as well. We need more strong and dedicated educators. We need to encourage children to expand their minds. Contrary to the believe of the liberal, money will not solve this problem, and in fact, cutting funding and disbanding the teacher's unions would probably do much more to further the cause. We need teachers who want to make a change, not a fat paycheck. That being said, I believe a good teacher is a valuable resource and deserves a more than fair payment for their immense services. Parents remember, loving your children takes more than words. Take a genuine interest in everything your children do. Encourage them to become great and push them to achieve all that they can become.

How, you say, does this affect a child's ability to learn?

The key lies in a parent's firm support of the child's education. When a child comes home from school and tells mom about his day, it is vitally important for the parent to assume a supportive role and help the child continue his eductation at home. Challenge the child to teach you what they have learned. It is commonly said that one does not truly know a subject until they have taught it.

Learn how to learn
You may have seen a T-shirt or bumper sticker with the statement "question authority." While I do not condone the rebellious nature with which this statement was derived, I most definitely agree that one must question that which they are taught. This questioning lies both in learning to understand a subject on a deeper level, as well as learning to differentiate between a teacher's opionion on a matter and the actual truth. Unfortunately, in this very politically charged age, many teachers have opted to leave their textbooks closed and indoctrinate, rather than teach their students. I have chosen not to digress into a discussion on the pathetic state of this faulty application of the separation of church and state that has caused so much pain for so many good people. For now, suffice it to say, politics have become a real stumbling block to many children's education. If not their traditional education, it has certainly been a detriment to their moral compass.