The calling of being a teacher is one that often comes with a great deal of emotion. There is a distinct feeling of fulfillment that accompanies the decision to spend one's life bettering others. There is an excitement that cannot be extinguished, and there is a nervousness that constantly bubbles in the back of your mind. If your passion lies in the enrichment of others, then you probably are also passionate about fighting against that which hinders the advancement of society. I implore you: why are racism, sexism, and bullying still an issue in our school systems?
As painful as it is to admit, there are many ways that these things still effect the students and teachers in our lives. On the front of sexism, teens in America are currently fighting against their administrations' choices in dress code. Time and time again, young women are told that their clothing is inappropriate for the school setting. Why? Apparently, clothes that show skin on the thighs, shoulders, or midriff are too easily distracting to male students. Students are rising up against this system and argue that women should be just as free to wear clothes that they are comfortable wearing. They also say that sexualizing the body parts that have nothing to do with reproduction (and on young girls, at that) is morally wrong.
When students or teachers find it acceptable to ostracize, put down, or otherwise bully anyone they deem "different", it needs to be handled as the serious situation that it is. In my personal experience, many schools are doing a lot to defend their student bodies against bullying. For example, they invite guest speakers, encouraging acceptance and take disciplinary actions against those found to be bullying. These are some of the examples of what a typical public school's anti-bullying regime might include. Students organize anti-bullying clubs and create "Safe Spaces" for anyone who needs them. However, bullying still happens every day. The problem is not completely in control of the school system, as it is a seed that it often planted elsewhere in a student's life. However, schools are one of the most common places for bullying to occur in a young person's life ,and yet also the first defense against it.
Racism is an issue that has been particularly heavy on my heart lately. A high-profile representative of the my particular field of education was recently attributed to making comments about the lack of ability in persons of minority. The statements implied that those who are of minority heritage and are pursuing a career in this particular field are not as well equipped to do so as those outside of the minority. It deeply disturbs me and many others that such statements could be made, but it is a stark reminder that racism does still exist. There are still school administrations out there who may pass up hiring a very well-equipped teacher out of racist misconceptions. There are still teachers who will expect less out of certain students due to their race.
What can we do about it?
Well, since I'm not yet out in the workforce, the only thing I can do now is be aware. For those like me, just starting out on the path to their passion, we should be on our toes looking for solutions to these problems that we can employ either now or in our future careers. We should do our research and find out what works and what doesn't. Furthermore, we should sign petitions, cast our votes for politicians who will make a positive difference, and keep our leaders accountable for the rights of our future students.
