The State of Education and Our Children - Something to Consider

Driving in to work today I dug out one of my old Success Magazine CDs and listened to Seth Godin talk about marketing and being weird (yes the Political correct part of me was offended until I heard the word applied).  

There were many quotable moments in the interview, yet with the current state of education and my interest in the state of our children today there is one in particular that brings me back to my keyboard. I am asking you to reflect on your education. I am asking you to think through your childhood eye and maybe even your own child’s view of their respective school day. 

“The current (educational) structure, which seeks low-cost uniformity that meets minimum standards, is killing our economy, our culture, and us.” ― Seth Godin, Stop Stealing Dreams

He goes on to say that the current education system was set up to support the industrial revolution and prepare the masses for working in the factory.

Be respectful. 

Be quiet. 

Sit here.

Do this. Again. And again. AND AGAIN.

Does this sound familiar? I believe that a truly inclusive education allows for those students who are in the margins to find their learning styles. I believe a truly rich educational allows for developmental milestones of all youth.  That includes opportunities to be active and increase oxygen levels to the brain so more of what is being taught is learned.  When it comes to children with disabilities I believe that we adults have become hypersensitive to the “can’t” as opposed to looking for the strengths. Yet, what happens to the child who can't, or won't, use the spoon with which they are being fed? 

How do we focus on each child and give them what they need to be more in tomorrow’s economy?

I am not saying tear it down. I am asking that we ask the hard questions and make the changes that are good for kids today and leaders of tomorrow.

Marketing and Education? Yes, the answers are going to come when we focus on the needs and wants of our consumers.

“If all we do with these tools is teach compliance and consumption, that's all we're going to get. School can and must do more than train the factory workers of tomorrow.” ― Seth Godin, Stop Stealing Dreams

Dr. Tae asked another great question to be considered next week: "Can Skateboarding save our schools?"

Play on, ask questions, and keep on keeping on – the investment will provide exponential returns.

Brian