Why has Americas education system fallen behind? This is a question parents, educators, and other people have today.
One reason is changing lifestyles has caused schools in America to lose sight of their priorities. In the past, American schools focused primarily on teaching academics. These days, they are taking on more and more of the parental role. When public schools must teach everything from anti-bullying to sex education to character development, there is not enough time in a school day for essential academic subjects.
This factor has contributed to the decrease in good teachers. Young people who would make excellent teachers often choose different careers instead. While teachers’ salaries may be adequate, it is not enough to cover everything teachers are expected to do. Many resent being substitute parents, and decide on different careers altogether.
The nation’s emphasis on competition has harmed the educational system. Schools try to compete with other countries, other districts, and even other schools in the same city. Youngsters who have not yet mastered the basics are expected to take on advanced coursework. It is no longer a matter of “do your very best.” Instead, it is “you must outdo others.”
Another reason for the decline in America’s education system is the lack of parental involvement. Many parents do not know whether their children’s homework is completed, or even which courses their kids are taking in school. Some expect an annual parent-teacher conference to make up for the lack of consistent involvement in their students’ educations.
The impact these factors have on education is everyone’s concern. Parents must begin to meet their responsibilities toward their own children. Teachers must be allowed to teach, rather than being in the position of replacing parents. School boards should do their own part by presenting children’s personal educational accomplishments as a higher priority than competition.