what do you think of public school?

Answer 1

It serves the needs of the masses--if the politicians would stay out of it and let the parents and educators set the standards and establish policy. Unfortunately all too often state lawmakers distribute money to the school districts and feel they have all the answers.

You've made a blanket statement that is hard to answer. A lot depends on where the public schools are located within a town. Even in school districts that cover all the schools in one town/city you will find differences based on that neighborhoods' population. I hate to say it, but even in the town I live in which is considered to be affluent there are pockets of lower income citizens. These parents have to work two jobs sometimes and English is not necessarily their first language. They don't have access to in-home computers in many instances. The schools are overcrowded and many are left behind because there aren't enough people to work with the kids. Other parts of town the parents are overly involved and put great effort and their own money into having art and PE classes for their kids. They pay for these salaries out of their own fundraising efforts. As you might guess, there is a preponderence of doctors, lawyers, etc. in these areas. The kids aren't any smarter inherently, but they are given advantages others aren't. They act more like private schools with public school money.

These schools tend to be smaller in size which allows for more individualized attention. In the larger schools gang activity--even if they are only wannabees--increase. Reputations suffer and they are seen as less desirable so even less money is funneled to them which seems to be the opposite of what should be occuring.

The best thing about the public schools that I've observed in different states is the quality of the teachers who are dedicated to helping kids learn with few resources and low pay. Now that they have to pass exams to reach Masters level (not the degree, but the level of competence) they have to work even harder to put their dossiers together to prove their ability. They don't get the prep time people think they do because they're constantly attending meetings on the new literacy programs, the federal standards, disciplinary meetings, and whatever else comes up. They spend their own time going to school events such as sports or music programs and spring fundraising events because they care about their kids and the school.

I'll be honest. I'd worked on my Master's in another field when I decided to take all the classes I needed to become a secondary school teacher. At the last minute I chose not to take the NTE because I couldn't deal with the bureacracy and pettiness of school boards, administrations and even some parents. I've put my talents to other uses helping kids and I'm much happier for it and I think just as effective.

I hope this somehow answers your question.

Answer 2

I think it is a good idea, but it sucks in the present system. It needs to be reworked, big time. It will not be successful though,since too many folk have too much invested in the current system.

Answer 3

Its great - I have been teaching for 14 years now!!! Two thumbs up - way up!!!

Answer 4

It pays the bills!

Answer 5

many laws need to be redone and you wouldnt see all the killing in them in my opion?

Answer 6

haha great...dreadful...scary...wonderful..
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