Religion in Schools

Religion in Schools has been a debate in America for years. As a Christian, I find it distressing that there is separation between church and state in this country. God is the creator of all things; it is impossible to take him out of any equation.

I find it disheartening that in 2009, federal judge Robert Gentleman of Illinois ruled against the “moment of silence” state law. Every morning when I rise from bed, I reflect and thank God for waking me up. Once I am in the car, headed to work, I pray once again for traveling grace and speak to God about the day that is at hand. These moments alone with God are important to me because they set the pace of my day. I pray for wisdom in the decisions I will make at work and in class. I also prioritize my agenda for the day.

I believe having a “moment of silence” at the beginning of the day, would be beneficial to students and teachers. Though I am a firm believer in Christ, I understand that there are many religions and beliefs. The “moment” allows an individual to speak to their “God” or idol, whoever it may be. Even those that do not believe in a “higher power”, such as atheists, can use this time to just breathe, reflect and mentally prepare themselves for assignments, exams and lectures that are at hand for the rest of the day.

“Defenders of the law argue it is a student's personal choice whether to pray or reflect more generally; therefore, proponents say, the law does not force religion on public school children.”

 I strongly agree with this statement. A “moment of silence” does not have to be seen as religious. Take a part and exam each word and there is no religious connotation.  “Moment” is another word for minute or instant. Merriam-Webster defines silence as the “forbearance from speech or noise.” Therefore, it is unnecessary to associate a “moment of silence” with religion and deem partaking it one at public schools as unconstitutional.

There was discussion at the Board of Education meeting in Texas regarding science curriculum.

Because of my Christianity, one can assume that I do not believe in the scientific theory of evolution. This assumption would be correct. Teachers should expect to be questioned by students about creationism. When these discussions and questions arise, what is the appropriate response for teachers? If religion can not be discussed in public schools then these questions have to be ignored, students will be respond well to that solution!

In conclusion, I feel that it is IMPOSSIBLE to take religion completely not of pubic schools because there are religious people who express themselves in these public schools.



Reference:

Calefati, Jessica. "Religion in Schools Debate Heats Up." Web. 29 Sep. 2011. <https://elearn.mtsu.edu/d2l/lms/content/viewer/main_frame.d2l?ou=2975445&tId=19133302>.

Innovators and Makers

We are truly blessed in forms of educational opportunities and advances in America today. We have innovators and makers to thank for that. We take the education system for granted many times. As students, we sometimes wonder why we have to sit in classrooms for 6+ hours a day. As teachers, from time to time we are taken aback by the demands and standards that must be achieved in the classroom. However, we all need to take a step back, look at other societies which as less fortunate than we are. Many countries have neither supplies nor buildings in which adequate education can be provided for children. We also need to think about the contributions and sacrifices that these innovators and makers have made for us; because without them, education in America would not be where it is today. The innovators have had a direct influence on public education in society today. “Makers” have influenced public education indirectly; bringing out the importance of education outside of the classroom.

The people mentioned on the PBS website all had vision and innovation which contributed to the success of public education in America today. Horace Mann made a sacrifice that speaks great lengths to his character when he stepped down from senate and served as the board of education’s first secretary. Catherine Beecher and Deborah Meier gave voices to women in education. John Dewey made the excellent argument that education is only what is taught and learned in the classroom, but also the physical and physiological development of the student, plus the world outside of the classroom.

As an African American, I would have to say that Linda Brown Thompson has been the most influential innovator of public education as we know it today. Brown v. Board of Education brought an end to legalized segregation of schools in America. I have had the privilege of receiving an equal opportunity education because of this case. Thompson and the other Topeka families made it possible for children of all races to attend school together. Public schools today are more diverse than ever. I believe diversity in schools contributes to the learning of students. It is important to communicate and socialize with people of different ethnicities. Different perspectives and multicultural education is seen. I truly believe that diversity in schools promotes student achievement. I feel that I have had a better educational experience because I have been taught in diverse classrooms.

This new reform bought to the system by the “makers” of education was essential because education progressed throughout the years from the nineteenth to the twentieth century. Modern schooling was lead by men like John D. Rockefeller and Henry Ford. The “makers” of education helped not only the education system but the economy as well. The influence and aid they contributed to public education was meandering, not direct like that of “innovators” of public education.  The “makers” let me know that everyone is capable of being successful and making a substantial difference in life, even those that do not perform well in the classrooms of school. They learn and improve in the classrooms of life. This is important for students to know because those that do not excel in the classrooms can know that they can still make a difference and education does not only come in the form of textbooks.

John D. Rockefeller was a philanthropist. He was part of the Efficiency Movement; therefore he donated his money and funded colleges and universities across America, effects that would promote growth to society. He is the “maker” that has had the most influence on public education today because of the establishment, aid and finances he has contributed at so many institutions all across America. 

Reference:

Poole, K. (2000). People & events: john d. rockefeller sr. 1839-1937. Retrieved from http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/rockefellers/peopleevents/p_rock_jsr.html