The Flaws of the U.S. Public High School Education System: A Student’s Perspective
High school education in the United States is riddled with systemic issues that affect students more than anything. This essay delves into some of the most pressing concerns, drawing upon firsthand experiences and observations of a student who has navigated this flawed system. From the focus on finances to the disregard for basic needs, the U.S. public high school education system is in dire need of reform.
It's All About Money
The reality is that the school system often prioritizes its financial interests over the needs of students. Schools are left in poor conditions, with outdated facilities and underequipped classrooms, all in the name of maintaining a high disciplinary profile and adequate funding through state and federal grants. A prime example comes to mind, where a school—a seemingly underfunded yet high-performing institution—operates in subpar conditions. The lack of resources and funding is not an isolated incident but a recurring issue, which leads to a compromised educational experience for students.
Testing, Testing, and More Testing
The overemphasis on testing is another significant flaw within the system. Students are subjected to a flurry of standardized tests at the beginning, middle, and end of the academic year. These tests, such as the STAR test, serve as a means to assess student performance and school performance. In the IEP classes, students undergo even more frequent testing, often every other week. This relentless testing not only consumes valuable learning time but also triggers a sense of apathy and disengagement among students. Instead of delving into subjects that pique their interest, they endure testing after testing, which only reinforces the notion that the educational system is more concerned with metrics than actual learning.
A Desire for Simple Pleasures
The structure of the school day is another point of contention. After sixth grade, recess is gradually phased out, leaving students with less time to explore and enjoy their youth. The prospect of having more free time is often dismissed as a reason to increase school hours, which only exacerbates the mounting pressure on students. The average academic day could be significantly shortened, yet many schools argue for longer days to fit more in. While increased time might seem beneficial, it sacrifices the physical and mental well-being of students, leading to higher instances of stress and burnout.
The Punishment System: Rhetoric vs. Reality
The current system of punishments, such as detention and in-school suspension, is ineffective and does little to deter misbehavior. Detention often involves solitary confinement with limited access to restrooms. This strict environment not only fails to teach valuable life lessons but also creates a game where students are incentivized to avoid punishment through any means necessary. Contrary to the intended deterrent effect, this model only encourages students to find loopholes and avoid detection, rather than fostering a sense of responsibility and accountability.
A More Balanced Approach to Homework
Another significant issue is the overwhelming amount of homework. With numerous classes, the accumulation of homework can become overwhelming, often amounting to 50 pages or more. This not only hinders the learning experience but also disproportionately affects students' mental health and well-being. A more balanced homework schedule could be implemented, wherein each class assigns homework on alternating days, thus easing the burden and allowing students more time to engage in other crucial activities. For instance, English homework could be assigned on Tuesdays, while American history homework could be on Thursdays. This schedule would distribute the workload more evenly and reduce the stress many students face.
Addressing Truancy
Truancy is a pressing concern that often triggers legal intervention, leading to arrests or jail time, which is not the intended outcome. While school attendance is critical, a more nuanced approach that emphasizes education and support rather than punishment would be more effective. Instead of criminalizing truancy, schools should offer support programs, counseling, and incentives to keep students engaged and motivated to attend. This approach would address the root causes of absenteeism and promote a more inclusive and supportive school environment.
Conclusion
The U.S. public high school education system is fraught with flaws that impact students in profound ways. From the overemphasis on testing and the relentless pursuit of academic success, to the insufficient time allocated for physical activity and the ineffectiveness of the punishment system, the system is in dire need of reform. By addressing these issues and implementing more student-centric policies, the educational landscape could be significantly improved, leading to a more positive and effective learning environment for all students.