Without a good education, children are left behind. Americans understand this. Yet, most do not acknowledge, in the United States, very few young persons receive quality instruction. American children do not learn to think critically, creatively, or comprehensively in comparison to those in other countries. Even students enrolled in excellent schools do not excel as children elsewhere do. Internationally, the information published in a 2002, United Nations Children's Fund, [UNICEF] study exposed a frightening truth; America pupils and schools receive poor grades when student performance and instruction are assessed. Today, the American education system remains at risk. As a recent report reinforces, today as we observe our offspring, we must consider the necessity of change. It is time to make Tough Choices (in these) Tough Times. This nation, left behind, must commit to teach our children well.
May I offer my sincerest gratitude to Representatives, Robert Wexler, Luis Gutierrez, and Tammy Baldwin. These glorious members of the House Judiciary Committee, recently raised the volume on the issue of impeachment for Vice President Cheney. The three invite us, the average citizen, to join them. Please express your distress; sign the petition. Call for Hearings. Without you the Vice President will continue to avoid an official and necessary censure.
Please do not stop there. Americans have seen what occurs when we are complacent. For too long Congressman Dennis Kucinich spoke of what many thought obvious, and only a few listened.
Quick, answer these questions. You are being timed. However, do not feel pressured. Do the best that you can. Our school literally depends on you. Your performance on these examinations will determine whether our district or this facility receives Federal funding. Do not open your test booklet until I tell you to do so. When you are finished, close the pamphlet, put your pencil down, and sit quietly. You may begin.The voyages of Columbus changed life in Europe by . . .
A) introducing new foods and spices to Europe
B) showing Europeans a shorter route to Asia
C) introducing the horse to Spain
D) proving that the Earth was flat
Many deem the school system is broken. Improvement will come when elementary, middle, and high schools operate as businesses do. Educational institutions need a plan. Districts must select the best teachers and require these mentors to shape their students. Standardized curriculums sensitive to the calendar and standardized test, policymakers posit, will serve our children well. Principals and parents, all but students speak in harmony. These experts in education speak in unison. Today, philanthropists concur. Corporate Chief Executives also sing in chorus. Adults concerned with accurate calculations and "matters of consequence" adopt the stance, "It is just that simple."
Our current President considers himself a champion in the arena of education. He believes that his program, "No Child Left Behind," is the shining light of his career.
Today, George W. Bush continues on his quest towards dimming the naturally brilliant minds of our progeny minds. The President proposes we renew the education law.
George W. Bush thinks teaching to the test is wise. Mister Bush believes innovation, imagination, and invention are unnecessary in a classroom. Students must be accountable. Schools must teach core competencies in their curriculum. According to the President, our children can only achieve excellence if the standards are high. We must reward success and sanction failure.
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