IT TAKES A VILLAGE…

As we drive on the highway of life, we all must get off on certain exits and show others “directions”. We do this whether we are going to the same place or not. This is my analogy of education.
We, as Louisianians owe it to ourselves, our ancestors, and most importantly our children to do our jobs to educate others.
Constituency, aren’t you tired of hearing how Louisiana is sub-par in certain areas of proficiency in education? This lack of learning only leads to the state being below average in categories such as high school completion, standardized tests, and literacy rates. We must end this continuum and get the ball rolling to boost Louisiana’s educational values.
I come from a family of educators; I know all too well the sacrifices that our diligent teachers make. I also know that there are some that are led by sense of disinterest because of poor working conditions, lack of funding and inappropriate pay. I myself have witnessed teachers who seemed to be more interested in their own personal and recreational venues than grading two-month old test papers.
My question to these people is how can you rate a student’s progress if the teacher doesn’t exhibit a progressional attitude to his class?
But citizens, we are not off the hook. Let’s help these teachers out! They only assist in laying a foundation for our kids. They don’t necessarily raise them. Parents, ensure homework is done. Also, can you give these kids healthy meals and make sure that they are in bed on time so that they stay alert in class? Correct their grammar when necessary. Kids are so cute when they enunciate properly! Also, whatever happened to “ma’am and “sir”, or plain old respect in general? Some teachers can’t handle the kids, because of an overall lack in respect. Go to PTA meetings. Help the educators by educating our kids also.
I have no children, but I feel I have to help out our families and educators. I can’t look at an educationally starving student and not do anything. Peers, I petition you to help out your local United Way, volunteer at neighborhood schools, or become a mentor. You don’t have to pass the NTE to become a teacher; and you don’t have to be a famous educator such as First Lady Laura Bush to execute programs to help educate others. As the old proverb says, it does take a village to raise a child.
We need to do all we can to instill the discipline along with the values and morals necessary for our kids to excel academically. These kids are the future of Louisiana, and our state should not waste away academically.
And That’s The Way I See It.