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Title: Declining Educational Proficiency and the Need for Parental Involvement
Introduction:
The concern over “summer learning loss” has evolved as educational standards decline. The 40th anniversary of the “A Nation at Risk” report highlights the persistence of mediocrity in K-12 education. Recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress reveals alarmingly low proficiency rates in U.S. history, civics, reading, and math among eighth and fourth-graders. The decline in proficiency continues, raising questions about the effectiveness of the education system and the role of the summer break.
The Crisis of Learning Loss:
Instead of using summer as an opportunity for recuperation, it has become a season for recovering from the shortcomings of the education system. Standards have dropped to the point where the majority of students, including white students, are not reading at grade level. The aspiration to close the black-white achievement gap may only lead to mediocrity for all students. The achievement gap is indicative of larger problems within the education system.
Grade Inflation and Social Promotion:
The issue of grade inflation and “equity grading” is increasingly prevalent. Students are receiving high grades despite not meeting grade-level standards. The recent standardized test results in California revealed a significant gap between grades and actual proficiency in math and English language arts. While graduation rates have risen, it is alarming to witness the decline in students’ proficiencies and the resulting illiteracy rates in the state.
Shifting Focus from Citizenship and Cultural Transmission:
Public education, originally designed to create responsible citizens and transmit culture, has shifted away from its founding purpose. Robert Pondiscio and Tracey Schirra argue that public education now lacks transparency in curriculum and educational content. Remote learning during the pandemic highlighted the need for public involvement in education. However, progressives and teachers unions are adamant in their opposition, fearing infringements on teachers’ autonomy. This debate around parental rights and educational content is likely to become a central political issue in the near future.
The Importance of Parental Involvement:
Trust in public schools is at an all-time low, necessitating conservative politicians to seize upon this issue. School choice and charter schools have gained popularity, indicating a desire for alternatives to the failing public education system. North Carolina’s Governor Roy Cooper has declared a “state of emergency for public education” as the state legislature aims to expand school choice options. This move highlights the lack of competitiveness among many public schools when parents have choices. Parental involvement and the ability to choose between public and private education may be the key to rejuvenating the declining education system.
Conclusion:
As educational standards continue to decline, it is crucial to address the crisis of learning loss and shift the focus back to the core purpose of education: forming responsible citizens and transmitting culture. The involvement of parents and the expansion of school choice options can help revitalize the education system. Conservatives must seize this opportunity to make education a salient issue and work towards restoring trust in public schools.
