By now, nearly all of Central Indiana’s K-12 schools have begun their fall semester and the state’s college and university start dates aren’t too far beyond.
Now it’s time to get serious. I’m talking consistently serious.
The sad reality is that relative to education, Indiana needs significant improvement. As a matter of fact, an annual Annie E. Casey Kids Count report recently ranked the Hoosier state No. 31 of all the 50 states. Illinois with all its issues still outpaced us at No. 23 and Ohio was 24th. We were right ahead of No. 32 Michigan. Kentucky ranked 34 on the list. So, while this city touts its Super Bowl-winning football team, stellar professional basketball teams as well as that cricket stadium that no one but the mayor seems to appreciate; our true focus should be in education and how to improve not only our national ranking, but also academic advancement for our children.
Now, my friends, is time to get busy on correcting the wrongs that have bogged us down for far too long.
We have all heard those catch phrases “A mind is a terrible thing to waste,” and “Education is the key to success,” so let’s actually act on those common sayings. Each of those statements should be a personal call to action for parents, students and teachers. Talk is cheap, but the reality of action is substantial.
Below are some quick points for parents, students and teachers to consider as this school year gets under way.
Parents
You are the first teachers, so take your jobs seriously. I recently spoke with a preschool educator. She said this summer she had at least three parents attempt to enroll their child in her school. Typically that would not have been such an unreasonable request since her school is into educating kids from toddlers to age 4; however the parents she spoke with didn’t know that. Those parents tried to enroll 5 and 6-year-olds into the program. None of the children attended any school previously. So already, through no fault of their own, those children are behind.
Parents, if you don’t understand what avenues to take, ask for help, no one should judge you – particularly if you are trying to do better. There are tons of service providers whose primary jobs are to help people navigate various systems. Take advantage of these opportunities by educating yourself on the process and then continuously work to educate your children. You can learn together.
Also, do the necessary things to equip your children, regardless of age, for academic success. Things like reading to them, communicating with their teachers and holding your kids accountable for their educational success. Have designated homework spots for your children and work to constantly enforce the importance of performing well academically.
Students
No matter what your circumstances are, know that you have the ability to shape your life in either a positive or negative manner. As this school year begins, understand that you may experience some challenging times academically and perhaps even socially. Work hard to overcome these instances and know that the difficult times won’t last long. Study hard and strive to be kind to others. Don’t be a follower who aimlessly executes the ill-will others assign you. Instead, lead by example and demonstrate high ethical standards and steadfast study habits. The decisions you make this year can drastically impact the rest of your life, so be mindful of your choices. And while some of you may have been dealt a crappy hand in your relatively short life, have faith that things will improve. And when you make mistakes, use them as life lessons that will empower you in the future.
Teachers
I understand that you have responsibilities that do not fall under the traditional job description of teacher … things like social worker, security guard and parent; but know that you still must give your all while educating our children. You never know the impact you make on a student’s life, so work in earnest and find satisfaction in knowing that you are shaping the future of the world. There may be times when you experience an especially difficult-to-teach student or perhaps one that is just unpleasant to be around. Don’t give up on those kids because they are the ones who need you most. Instead invest even more time in them and the fruits of your labor will eventually pay off when that student makes a positive change. Your profession is probably one of the most underrated in this country, but know that you are still a tremendous blessing!
You can email comments to Shannon Williams at shannonw@indyrecorder.com.
