Even if I were not a former educator, I think I would still be invested in education and educational policies of this country. Thomas Jefferson firmly believed that free public education was essential to democracy; a country cannot self-govern without an educated populace. And yet, the way this democracy now treats education seems to completely contradict Jefferson's ideas. Instead of supporting education at all costs, it is often the "cash cow" from which to pull money needed for other governmental functions. Ok, yes, it is important to have a functioning government, but how long will that government function if the people are not being educated?
My sister sent me this story about a true educator. A story about a man who believes in the universal right to free, quality education, and who is so devoted to his job that he is willing to do it for very little money. This certainly will not fix the problems that public education is facing these days, but it is certainly a step in the right direction. We need more people like Mr. Powell in order to ensure that everyone will be able to realize those all-American ideals of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.
Read his story here:
http://www.suntimes.com/news/nation/7355416-418/what-america-is-all-about-school-chief-gives-up-800000.html
http://newsfeed.time.com/2011/08/30/fresno-school-superintendent-takes-800000-salary-cut/
No comments:
Post a Comment