Ramblings from the Father of Twins

For the past 20 years, scientists have continually looked at the reduction of the ozone layer and its effects on our environment. The decline of our natural resources, unusual changes in our climate and Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth” all demonstrate the true nature of this gigantic issue. While listening to Alan November’s podcast from FETC, I saw an uncanny resemblance to the Greenhouse Effect. Our nation’s education system is heating up (NCLB); our natural resources (our children) are slowly declining compared with other nations worldwide; it’s an inconvenient truth for most to believe but our educational system needs a complete review, overall or any other words to describe starting over, revamping or blowing it up.

I have to agree with Alan November that many of today’s schools need to flip the script and allow students to take control. I’m not trying to condone allowing the inmates to run the asylum but I would suggest allowing the kids to take the reins in developing their education. Our current model works for some but not for most. America may still be the home of the brave but India and China take the prize for the gifted and talented. Mr. November’s comment regarding the total number of gifted children in China outnumber all of our children is astounding. The United States needs to take a step back and look at the design of its current system. I have a unique perspective because I’m a career switcher. I’m still relatively new to education compared with many staff members in my building and I see flaws, good and bad.

Our time is now!! NCLB is with us. A bandage is not going to fix something that requires full blown surgery. Our world as we know it is shrinking while the rest of the world continues to pass us by. If we don’t fix it soon, our forecast is forever going to be overcast.