If children are the future, ours is an illiterate one.
English Language Arts scores are in and the results are below what was expected. According to WGRZ, 65 percent of Buffalo's public schoolchildren from 3rd to 8th grade read below their grade levels.
Principals point to how the scores are up from 2006. However, the superintendent admits the system is ill-equipped to do what's best for the students.
Lack of funding could be a problem. Domestic funding for education shrinks nationwide every year. Buffalo, along with Rochester, Syracuse and New York City schools all have falling standards. Money isn't going to the students, or the programs that really need them. Administrators have seen to that.
Students also need teachers who know what's best for pupils. While most teachers care about the welfare of their students, their current curriculum needs revision.
Across the nation, students and schools are failing. Urban schools consistently fall short when compared to their wealthier, suburban counterparts.
According to USA Today, students don't know important historical events. Out of 1,200 17-year-olds polled, 43 percent couldn't identify when the Civil War was fought.
Plans need to be put in action to solve this problem. Reading is one of the most important life skills taught in our schools. Unfortunately, so many students have been deprived of this ability, which will surely have a negative impact on their futures.
The time has come to send the money and resources into the otherwise-dying education systems. The people who know what's best, the people who witness education first hand can help to get youths reading - the teachers.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
