Steps Towards Equity

We've reached the end of the semester and I can honestly say that I have learned a great deal in this class. I feel that before I took this class I was blind to the inequalities within the educational system. I mean I knew that overcrowding was an issue and that poor conditions existed in many schools, but I didn't know to what extent. After doing the readings and listening to the presentations and discussions, I have opened my eyes. I am now aware of the problems that exist in our society. The things I learned in this class impacted me greatly. In most classes I forget what i learned after a semester, but I will never forget what I learned in this class. Eventually when i have kids, I know that I will take what i leaned in this class and apply it to my children's education. I will be an involved parent, and fight for the best education possible for my children.

We were asked to blog about the things that we will do to make a difference. I think one way to start making change would be to suggest this class to other students, I can also tell my friends and family members about the readings and discussions we had during class in order to spread awareness of the issues present in our educational system. I think another step I will take is to become an educated democratic citizen. I tend to stay away from politics because i don't know much about it. I think if I learn more about policies and political candidates, i will be be an educated voter. If i am given the opportunity to vote, i should take advantage of it. I should not waste it because voting is one way to make my voice heard. Along with voting, i think it is important to become involved in local affairs. I think that by taking part in community programs, and volunteering at community centers and events, I will learn more about the specific needs in my area. I can become a volunteer as a mentor for high school students and help them voice their opinions, show them that they too have the power to make change. I always knew that i wanted to work with children in a school setting, whether it be as a teacher or school counselor. I will take the knowledge i gained from this class and apply it whatever job i choose. Fixing the problems of our educational system will not be an easy task, but it is very important that we do so. We need an effective, equal system to ensure the proper education of the students, they are after all the future of our country.

I think its really easy to make a list of ideas I have to help make a difference, but the hard part is to actually do them. As England said, we must all make steps toward change. Small steps which can lead us to big change. It would be almost impossible for me to make a great deal of change within the education system. But if everyone makes an effort we can be much more productive. Therefore i think it is very important to educate the public about the inequalities within the system.