#4

I couldn't help but relate this article to the documentary on public education called "Waiting for Superman." The documentary discusses a similar pipeline effect that inadequate public education has on children. It saddens me that something as simple as giving a student a little extra help and time is not practiced more. We need to focus on stopping the pipeline effect closer to it's source--first in the classroom. I was surprised, however, that the zero-tolerance policies and policing of hallways are detrimental to a child's development. I never considered it this way. Throughout my years of public education I always thought it was silly to be at risk of suspension for bringing a pair of scissors to school; this article only confirms how ineffective the strict policies can be.

After watching this video clip I realized that aside from the schooling system there is a lot going on in the personal lives of inner-city African-American boys. External factors like family life and economic standing affect a young black student's mentality. Also, the issue of race affects their impression of school. A boy in the documentary claimed he was in trouble because he's black. It seems like all odds are against inner-city students in regards to them and their education. Another boy in the documentary talked about how there are so many police and security at his school but nothing to learn. Clearly, there are educational inequalities that need to be addressed.

I think the first thing I can do to address the issue of educational inequalities is to be informed and aware of what is going on around me in the public schooling system. By reading articles and watching documentaries about the pipeline effect I am doing so. Next, I'd like to get involved and be a steward to the improvement of public education. I plan to listen and empathize with others who are sharing their experiences and support them. I plan to motivate students to reach out to their peers, mentors, teachers, and/or counselors for their resources and have plans to attend college.

I have high expectations for our first meeting with the high school students. I am very excited to meet them; I want to hear all about them and their aspirations. I also have stories to share about things I've learned over the years and I hope I can offer great advice to them so they can learn from all of our combined experiences. My biggest wish is that the high school students benefit from this program. I want them to come out of this having learned about all the opportunities and resources they have that will help their transitions into college.