So, I'm not an overly political person.. and anybody who is friends with me on Facebook has seen this small, rant-like message I have about Betsy Devo being the Secretary of Education. And here's what I think you need to know from an education major's point of view.
I've done quite a bit of reading recently about Betsy DeVo's policies and latest controversies and what not and all I have to say is that the possibility of her being the secretary of education is slightly terrifying.
Growing up I went to both public and private school. While I understand not wanting your child in a public school because of religion, quality of education, etc. I do not understand pulling funding from said public school. If you are financially able and wish to send your child to private school, great! I really hope that it is the best choice for your family. I did it, there's no shame there.
But not all families can.
The fact is that there are families who struggle to provide the basic needs for their children at all. I understand that putting your tax money into a school you don't fully support or would not recommend seems like a waste, but I promise you that it isn't. Your tax money is educating students who would otherwise be left uneducated completely. That tax money could be the difference in a child's literacy. That tax money could be the difference in a student graduating. That tax money could, quite literally, change a student's life. And you wouldn't even know it.
So many public schools are already severely underfunded. ESPECIALLY inner city schools! Putting your money towards charter schools and private high schools (don't even get me started on for-profit universities) could not only hugely impact the gap between lower and middle class families, but could impact the economy as a whole. Think about how many students would be effected because the tax money wasn't towards their original public school, regardless of whether the charter schools were public and open to them or not. It could ultimately result in the closing of schools and effect students getting to school, staying in school, etc.
And all of this doesn't even touch on the fact that Mrs. DeVo claimed "confusion" about IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) which is a federal civil right law protecting special needs students in schools. UMH HELLO!!!! That is a big deal!! Our disabled students need people to advocate for them and protect them. The secretary of education NEEDS to be aware and know about this. I am a freshman in college and I know about it.
DeVo claims that states should make decisions about their education but the truth is that all schools should have a standard they are held to for the growth of students and the growth of the country. Fortunately or unfortunately (however you view it) federal laws is the easiest and most effective way to ensure and enforce this.
Those of you who know me know that my heart is all in when it comes to urban missions and inner city schools. With this being said, I really encourage you to take a look at the policies and think about the impact your tax money makes on public schools - whether you have been through them or support them or not.
Regardless of your opinion on the matter, I hope you take this into consideration. If you decide that you would like to write a letter to your state opposing her as the secretary of education, I am including a link below where you can fill in your information and a pre-written letter will be sent on your behalf.
http://edadvocacy.nea.org/nea/app/write-a-letter?0...
