The public school system has been an important part of American culture for more than a century. Prior to then, children learned at home or from a person who would have them in a one room school for an hour or two each day, covering some of the basics regarding reading and writing. The relevance of education in America has been dated since the inception of the Board of Education, with citizens in Massachusetts fighting to keep it out of their state.
Education has evolved with industry, giving a uniform education to the masses. While often associated with the basics of reading, writing, and arithmetic, the school system has also expanded their curriculum to include a large variety of other topics. History, foreign language, and the performing arts are among those that are among the most important. Children are exposed to the same information and the system has developed guidelines to ensure that a child can transfer to a school in another part of the country and blend into the new schoolwork relatively seamlessly.
Children also have access to a great deal of sporting programs, including football, basketball, and volleyball. These events allow the children to grow school spirit while giving them the opportunity to increase their level of health. Even those who do not participate in the programs often enjoy going to games to support their classmates. People in their hometowns show support through a variety of means, including funding and booster programs.
Education in America has grown also to provide children with several extra-curricular activities. There are clubs in foreign language and ones that support sports and spiritual pursuits. Those who are more academically inclined may choose to join a chess club or the National Honor Society. Some clubs intended for adults often have a related program available for high school students. A great example of this is the Kiwanis support group Key Club.
The more of these activities students participate in, the greater their opportunities when it comes time to go to college. When high school seniors begin applying to various colleges and universities, they are provided the opportunity to share what they have accomplished academically and socially. Those who show the widest variety of experiences along with a high grade point average are most likely to get into the school of their choosing.
In recent years, some parents have begun to question the validity of these programs and home school families have begun to sprout up across the nation. Many school districts have responded by outlining specific guidelines to ensure the children still grow up with the basic knowledge the system requires of all youngsters. Additionally, there are a growing number of online options available for families that have concerns or difficulties with the traditional school system.
Education in America has evolved over the decades, giving rise to a variety of opinions regarding relevance of the system. It is important that each family understand and explore how all of these factors influence them.
