As somebody who attended a bilingual school for seven years, I've seen different cultures and dialects my entire life. In bilingual schools, not only are children able to learn a language at a much deeper level than most students are offered, but they also spend more time observing a multitude of cultures. This provides students with a more globally friendly atmosphere, whilst also propelling them to be more aware of subcultures around them. During my schooling, I learned about over 15 different countries, ate authentic dishes from all around the world, and was able to truly become more aware of the different types of celebration around the world.

In other, traditional schools, this culture is lost.

In suburban American schools, students are subjected to learn about many, mainstream cultures, but fail to understand the people living around them. In a country where 16-17% of the population is comprised of Hispanic or Latino people, its' time that schools add acceptance and perspective into their lesson plans. While students are forced to learn about the subdivisions of Spain, or the ancient art of the Andeans, they fail to observe the festivals of the Dominicans, or the current culture of Puerto Ricans. These "culture lessons" truly are a waste of these young people's time. Why learn about ancient culture, when we could be learning about current events and culture around the world?

Public schools need to remodel the curriculum in order to reach the caliber of acceptance that is preached throughout bilingual programs. Most Americans are unaware that Puerto Ricans are even citizens of the United States. With updated curriculum, not only would this ignorance be reduced, but continental Americans would be able to appreciate yet another piece of this ever-changing nation. It's time to step out of Spain, and step into the world.

In no way does this make Spaniard culture any less relevant. However, it is important that we, as an educated body of people, are able to learn about those who are around us. Schools should be teaching topics that will propel students to be the most well-informed and productive people possible - and without proper knowledge about the cultures around them, the schooling system threatens to breed a generation of ignorant and clueless humans. The redundant nature of public curriculum does not allow students to expand their knowledge. What is the point of becoming an expert on Spaniard history when we cannot explain the importance of the Dominican Carnival?

So, what does this mean for you?

It means it's time to talk to the curriculum directors, call the principals, and put more thought into the lesson plans.