Over the years the educational system in America has had its share of challenges. Overcoming them has brought us to the schools that we have today.
Some of the problems over the years have been due to segregated classrooms and freedoms that people has fought to have. Now many of these are things of the past. Today’s schools face new threats such as safety issues, gun control, emotional issues both in students and teachers.
Schools used to focus primarily on the three R’s – Reading, Writing and Arithmetic but today the scope is broader as are teaching styles.
With the introduction of new and curious teaching methods, discussions have arisen as to what is the best teaching style. Is it open classroom method, is it oral, visual or verbal? All of these things have been questioned. The conclusion depends on each individual student and/or teacher.
Many schools today are faced with cutbacks as well. This has affected the modern day school in ways such as equipment and programs which help the students become creative and develop. Some schools have gone so far as to cut out music or art from the curriculum. The cutbacks and the lack of security in some schools is causing some parents to turn to home schooling or to send their children to private schools. This presents problems as well.
The educational system in America today has done a wonderful job in producing a nation of literate citizens. Many schools provide adult programs for both immigrants and Americans who have not received their diplomas yet. Literacy rates have improved greatly over the years.
Most schooling today is funded by the government. It can be funded either locally or by the state and in many cases even the federal government establishes programs to the benefit of its students. School boards often set policies and have jurisdiction over designated areas. Some districts have better funding than others depending on the governments who make the decisions.
The educational system in America focuses mainly on producing a nation of intelligent, competent people. There are services provided in many schools like guidance counselors, food programs, and guidance on future careers. To excel in the future most jobs require at least a high school diploma. Thankfully many adults who could not get a diploma are given opportunities as adults.
The challenges of the modern school system are still great today. Many teachers feel underpaid and therefore look to find better paying jobs. Thankfully the education system in America is filled with many devoted teachers who love their profession.
There are special needs children who have the devotion of their teachers to help them grow. There are also gifted children who receive extra attention so they can progress and eventually get into good colleges in the future. Many programs for these gifted students have been cut due to cutbacks but teachers continue to provide knowledge to help them reach for the stars.
The American Dream is very much alive and encouraged in American Schools.
