Education Issues

We are very fortunate in Kirkwood to have a high quality educational system. I am very proud that Griffin had the chance to go to Westchester Elementary School which just received an award for their performance this past year. (look up in the latest Webster Kirkwood times). Many people have worked and do work diligently to provide the quality of education we have here in Kirkwood.

Griffin, my 12 year old nephew, has just started 6th grade at North Kirkwood Middle School. I see the team of teachers working to ensure all children receive the education they need to meet their future goals. If you have children you understand the importance of continuity between home and school. At times it can be challenging one great aspect of our teachers is they also just want the best for our children.

Studies have shown that children who attend pre-kindergarden programs are better equipped than their counterparts who do not attend preschool. They do measurably better in school and in life than their peers who do not. They score higher on academis achievements test, they get better jobs and they are less likely to become dependent on welfare or engage in criminal activity. Preschool is a sound investment and every child in the state should be offered preschool access.

I am troubled by “No Child Left Behind” legislation that has been in place for the past 6 years. Westchester Elementary School received high honors but it was one of only 5 in the State of Missouri to do so. When “No Child Left Behind” was passed no additional funding was given to schools to meet the standards (that have no statistical relevance to anything) to the schools, especially our already troubled schools. Many of our schools are struggling to achieve the standards and many are starting to fail. Our teacher’s lesson plans are being high jacked so the emphasis is only placed on reading and math, which is where our children are tested. Social studies, science, art, physical education and many other courses are being left out of the ciriculum so our children can learn reading and math. Then, we hear our children can not pick out the United States on a world map, and we wonder why. Many fear “No Child Left Behind” is nothing more than a long term plan to privatize our schools. We need to look into this from a state point of view and see how our struggling and failing schools can be helped.

Immense globalization is causing leaders to call for new competencies to advance global competitivness and leadership in the global markets. These include scientific innovation, security, and proactively improve international relations. In the 21st century, young people who understand the dynamics of global economics and intercultural relationships will have a distinct advantage in securing good jobs. All around us we need to ensure that the education of all of our students is advanced to meet the emerging needs of the global community.