The Importance Of Public Education

Going to school and education have always been exceedingly important to me, from the very beginning. Over time, I have come to love education for myself, and appreciate the many doors it opens for a stable future. So, it has always been troubling to me when I come across students of my own age and race- who don’t share that same appreciation. Of course, people aren’t always going to enjoy the mind crashing labor that comes with school- but I figured that there would at least be some level of regard for public education- especially in a school like TC Williams. At really no cost to students, we have at our disposal computers, a full library, free college courses and free industry certification exams- it is virtually impossible to not succeed …show more content…
One of those strong roots is socioeconomic background of said students. Less than idyllic living situations (neighborhoods of concentrated poverty) and poverty can affect the behaviors, academic achievement, and performance of students, as well as conform and alter their attitudes regarding education. “Children raised in poverty are faced daily with overwhelming challenges [...] their brains have adapted to suboptimal conditions in ways that undermine good school performance,” (Jensen). Dealing with poverty in childhood creates pathways for several different risk factors; including emotional and social challenges, acute and chronic stressors, cognitive lags, and health and safety issues. These risk factors manifest themselves in academic performance.

(include interview with Demonte, “Nobody ever made it out, I’ve never seen anyone do it, making money illegal way, quicker faster & cite personal …show more content…
Having these people, who look like me, in positions of authority and influence have done a lot for me and how I value education- especially because I want to become an educator myself. The amount of hours that students spend in schools constitutes the fruition of positive bonds with our teachers and administrators. These bonds serve as yet another reason for students to show up to class and meet the expectations set by those teachers, who’ve made it clear that they are here to support us in our learning and growth. Personally, these bonds aren’t only facilitated between myself and black teachers, but I can appreciate them because these teachers look like me. These teachers understand my mind, and see the world in eyes not identical to my own, but sharing a similar view. Our experiences are in some ways one in the same, and they motivate me to come to class and do what I have to do. In a world where the people in authoritative positions often do not look like me- it is extremely validating to have someone instructing me with whom I share common