Why does everyone complain about education, but no one wants to change it???

Question

It is seriously perplexing. Studies show a VERY low correlation between money spent and quality of education, yet people still want to try to solve the problem with money.

Our system is openly criticized. Studies show that we're becoming worse and worse, yet people think that "public education" is clearly where it's at.

People think that a "computer in every classroom" will solve the problem, then we get a computer (that collects dust) and it's a remodel, smaller classes, etc.

Why are we so reluctant to overhaul the system???

Answer 1

thats a good question I was just watching a rerun of Oprah the other day where she talked about the sad state of US schools They say that the public education system is outdated and needs to be overhauled I also saw something on 20/20 where they talked about it also and I think the answer would be in making schools private and compete like businesses and give everyone vouchers to use at the school of their choice

Answer 2

Because it's difficult to change a corrupt system. You have the government to fight (local, state, fed) and the teachers' unions. How do you go against that and win? We had enough people on our last ballot to overturn the entire board of education at our school district and did people do it? No, they kept half of the old and voted in half new. The old members are opposed to positive change and the new members can't get anything pushed through. We are moving our kids to a charter school that has a focus on academics vs. sports. They use a better curriculum and offer many more opportunities for our kids.

If I were in charge, I would change the system to remove competitive sports from our schools. Intermural sports where every student could play if they wanted to would take it's place. It would be an after school activity that took up no time during the learning day. Students with grades below a C would not play until they bring up their scores. College type stadiums would not be built on high school campuses and the money would go into other programs that develop the mind. Our students are falling behind the rest of the world and we are worried about how they will do at the Friday night football game. Our priorities are totally out of whack. Teachers would have to prove competency in their subject or be removed from the class. Students would be placed in classes based on ability vs. trying to keep all of the students on the same page of the same book. Keep kids excited about learning vs. boring them to death on subjects that they have already mastered. Heavier focus on math and science. Return to grading papers with red pens and mark spelling and grammar errors so kids can learn where they are going wrong. How can they know that they used the wrong tense or spelling if no one tells them?

But since I'm not in charge and there is no way for me to go against the sports freaks of our country, my plan would never fly. So I send my kids off to charter school.

Answer 3

Here's the issue: In what way would you overhaul it? Taking privitization out of the equation, what would you do? Teachers (atleast in my state) are being pounded with things to do to improve the educational environment, bombarded with professional development, and raked through the coals if students do not make adequate growth.

I think there is a serious problem too. I found out today that my students who are EC will be expected to attend regular ed. reading and math classes and receive grades from them and only get supplemental help from the EC teachers. For a student who is in EC classes 1/2 the school day, how is this possible? For the child who is in third grade but at a kindergarden reading and math level, how is this going to work? Under law children cannot miss any specials (music, art, P.E., etc.) or recess. They shouldn't have to miss anything!

My friend, I too believe it is time for change! The problem is how to do it effectively.

Answer 4

The higher ups in the corrupt system we have in place would have too much to lose - politicians, unions (yes, I'm in a teachers' union), private corporations (ie. book publishers). It's become a "good 'ol boys" club.

I honestly believe the only people that truly care about the students' education and well being (other than their parents of course) are the people that work with kids day to day - teachers, aides, principals, volunteers etc. Politicians, unions, corporations when push comes to shove, only care about their image and their money. They've developed a system where they can obtain an abundance of both.

Hibby76: Although it appears we differ on educational opinions, I appreciate you bringing up these good questions!

Answer 5

There ARE efforts to change things going on. Mayors of major cities are taking over failing districts. Bill and Melinda Gates are helping with another effort. Check it out at http://www.standup.org/

If nothing is happening where you are, start a local movement.

Answer 6

Everyone who complains moves to private schools

Answer 7

Well, when you start your campaign, put my name on your petition.