Change America by Changing Our Education System

Debate over education reform often centers on issues like charter schools, MCAS testing and teacher’s union driven seniority rules and pensions. It’s time for a much bolder look at reforming education.

A major revamping of the American education system is needed. Education must (A) become more technologically and engineering oriented, (B) assist underachieving students obtain more social stability and productive capabilities, and (C) be less expensive. Seems impossible, but here’s how.

First, we need much more early childhood education for children whose own family cannot or will not promote early learning behavior. This is needed from the time of birth through all the years (and summers) of schooling. Because this is an expensive proposition, its subsidized availability for those who avail to this benefit program should only be for ones first two children. Expecting a huge increase in taxpayer support for more than two children who are not one’s own is counterproductive. The program would commence in the future so everyone knows the parameters and limitations.

Second, technical and vocational education should be offered beginning in middle school, the age where so many young people begin to know whether a life of bookishness is right for them. By 11^th grade people who do not want to concentrate on academics should be able to enter the work world with the fundamentals of a technical education. To enhance lifetime learning and retraining, vocational and technical schools should be open on week nights and weekends at an affordable cost for all people who come to career training or retraining later in life.

Third, a Bachelor’s degree should only be a three year course of study. Parent, student and government provided financial support should be required for three, not four, years for a bachelor’s degree. This will save everyone a tremendous amount of money and would also greatly help the many people who begin college but do not finish it due to financial pressures (combined with a lack of academic preparedness). Making the goal line closer and the cost of a degree cheaper will help considerably. More in depth study beyond a bachelor’s degree can occur either at one’s place of employment or in a Master’s degree program.

These dramatic changes in how we view education’s role in economic development are long overdue. We may not have as many Renaissance men and women, but we also won’t bankrupt and stress out so many families’, students’ and taxpayers’ budgets. Those few who truly value, seek and benefit from a more complete liberal arts education will find the time and wherewithal to pursue it regardless of structural and government support.

Randy Feldman is an attorney in Worcester. He talks politics on WCRN 830 AM every Tuesday and Friday between 12:00 -1:00 PM and on his website, bigmouthmanifesto.com.