In today’s socio-political climate, terms like ‘social justice’ and ‘equality’ have become ubiquitous, reverberating through media channels, social networks, and news outlets across America. Yet, amidst the cacophony of these buzzwords, a silent prejudice often goes unnoticed – the low expectations we place on students within our inner-city school systems.
Our culture has significantly dumbed down various aspects of our education system, including curriculum, pedagogy, and most alarmingly, our expectations of student performance. This trend is not only disheartening but also detrimental to the future of our nation. The unfortunate reality is that this systemic watering-down of standards often serves monetary interests, perpetuating a cycle that prioritizes funding over genuine student success.
The manufacturing of student success, where passing grades are handed out rather than earned, creates an illusion of progress while concealing the grim reality of students’ lack of genuine achievement, their unpreparedness for post-educational life, and the regression of educational standards. If we continue down this path, we risk fostering a generation ill-prepared for the challenges of the real world. It’s a dire situation that demands immediate rectification.
Setting A Higher Standard
To reverse this trend, we need to raise the bar of expectation. We must train and support teachers to uphold and execute new policies and guidelines that promote excellence. We need to create an environment that not only nurtures students’ natural curiosity but also instills in them a relentless desire to learn. The desire to learn should not be stifled by a student’s zip code, racial or ethnic identity, economic standing, or any disability. Every child, regardless of their background, deserves access to quality education that challenges them, encourages their growth, and prepares them for a future filled with possibilities.
The task ahead is daunting, but it is achievable. It requires collective action, steadfast commitment, and an unwavering belief in the potential of our students. It starts with us, the stakeholders in our education system – teachers, parents, policymakers, and society at large – to ignite this change.
The time for action is now. We can – and must – do better for our students. Their success is our success, and their future is our future. Let us discard the shackles of low expectations and instead raise our standards, our hopes, and our belief in the potential of every student. Let’s make a commitment to provide an education that truly prepares our children for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century and beyond.
Dr. Aaron Lewis, January 22, 2024