Abstract The argument presented in this paper is that the publicschool system has not failed society--and that the privatization of the school system will do nothing to improve standards. In fact, the paper argues that it is society that has failed the publicschool system, a system based on democratic principles and the right to an education for all.
Abstract This paper is about the role of publicschools in the promotion of equality and democracy. The paper provides evidence to show that publicschools have not promoted equality and democracy.
From the Paper "Based on the analysis of the organization educational funding curriculum and other aspects of public schools this paper will argue that schools have reinforced inequality and non-democratic practices ..."
Abstract This paper argues in favor of the adoption of publicschool uniforms. it discusses the 1996 proposal by President Clinton and subsequent developments on the question. The paper evaluates the case for uniforms and arguments made in opposition, and concludes in favor of school uniforms.
From the Paper "In his State of the Union address in then President Bill Clinton included the adoption of uniforms for public school students as one of a number of proposals intended to improve the quality of ..."
Abstract Pointing out that adolescents need a resource from which they can obtain accurate information about healthy sexual behavior, this paper argues, from a practical point of view, that sex education should be taught in publicschools.
From the Paper "There are few subjects that raise as much controversy as the debate over sexual education classes in public schools. Indeed, the topic inevitably induces extreme reactions on both the pro and con sides of the argument. Those who oppose the notion of adolescents receiving sexual education in school usually object on moral grounds arguing that such classes will not merely provide information on healthy sexuality but actually encourage sexual activity in teenagers. However, when one considers the topic from a practical point of view it becomes quite obvious that sexual..."
Abstract The purpose of this paper is threefold. Firstly, the paper provides a summary of contemporary research into the question of publicschool safety. Secondly, the author interviewed a professional in the field of education to gain a firsthand perspective on the matter. Finally, the author analyzed the results of that interview, carefully comparing and contrasting the results with the research.
From the Paper "The purpose of this study is threefold. One, a summary of contemporary research into the subject of safety within the public school systems in the United States will be examined. This research overview should not be considered comprehensive of the whole of this complex field. Rather, it's aim is to provide a general assessment of current trends in this field and examine whether public schools are generally safe. Two, the author has interviewed an education professional with several questions based on the research from the first section. The professional is an elementary teacher in a working class, western Pennsylvanian school. This individual has asked to remain anonymous and will be referred to throughout the interview as Edith. The questions I have asked Edith have been designed to garner a first-hand assessment of public school safety."
Abstract Education finance as the foundation that enables schools to exist and teaching and learning to occur is discussed. The author is of the opinion that in order for desired outcomes to be fully realized, schoolfinance must be viewed as an essential part of any major reform plan.
From the Paper "In the debate of the value of public education versus private education, a great deal of attention has been devoted to funding. Fundraising activities not only shape the structure of the school, but also influence the content of the curriculum, and determine whether students have access to a variety of technologies The primary difference between funding for public and private schools seems obvious; public schools rely primarily on government funding while private schools depend mostly on private donations. However in recent times, only a small percentage of private schools are able to exist solely on donations. According to Burnett (2000):
Today, there are over 27,000 private schools; that's about 25 percent of all schools in the nation. Of these, a relative few -- 2,000 or so -- are independent, as commonly defined. These schools are independently governed nonprofit institutions. They rely on tuition and charitable donations for financial support and not on federal or state funding (Burnett, 2000). "
Abstract This paper shows the balance between the negative and positive aspects of publicschools. Similarly, it reflects that home schooling provides an ideal atmosphere for a child under close supervision but has certain limitations too.The biggest advantage the home schools offer is the protection from the violence, sex, drugs and other social ills that is now a common phenomenon in the publicschools. The publicschools may be infested with serious problems, but they are still indispensable to the intellectual, emotional and psychological growth of young minds. The intellectual growth at homes and social grooming at publicschools are shown to be equally important. Both these options provided are shown to provide endless opportunities to learn and grow.
From the Paper "Education is most important facet of any society. Educated youth is an asset which contributes to progress, development and evolution of civilization. Human beings are naturally blessed with enormous potentials. Education is the knowledge of putting one's potentials to maximum use. When we think of education, the first thing which comes to our minds is the educational institution or the school. Since centuries, the most common form of getting formal education is through Public Schools. However, it has been observed that in last two to three decades, the Public School education is going down the slope. There are numerous questions raised as to the quality of education being imparted and the illicit extra-curricular activities the students are indulging while attending Public Schools. Parents are now getting apprehensive of sending their children to Public Schools and are forced to think of safe alternatives."
Abstract This paper looks at how in the debate of home school versus publicschool, there are many factors to consider. It contends that the adverse aspects of publicschool far outweigh the benefits and that the home-schooled child generally tests higher than a publicschool student in every subject. It also looks at how studies show that most home-schooled individuals exist as exemplary citizens in today's society.
From the Paper "America's school system today is lacking in the core fundamentals that this nation was founded on. On every piece of currency printed in America are the words 'In God We Trust'. Our pledge of allegiance includes the words 'One nation under God'. Isn't it strange then that our children will not be taught anything about God in the American education system? Instead, they will be taught the 'Big Bang' theory or evolution and yes, while everything does evolve, it had to start somewhere. Not everyone in America believes in God, or evolution, or the Big Bang, but a child should be brought up knowing enough about all of the possibilities to make their own informed decision."
Abstract This paper presents a research proposal that addresses the question of school choice. School choice could include, but is not limited to, choosing a different publicschool, choosing to home school, or choosing a private school. The paper uses literature reviews, a study proposal and a general discussion to provide a basis for the belief that such a study is timely and useful. The paper answers several questions including what the impact might be, who would make the choice and how would ability to choose change the allocation of funds structure currently in place.
From the Paper "In most districts across the nation school choice is limited to private or public. Most districts have geographic boundaries and limitations that prevent parents from sending their children to the school of their choice and they were instead relegated to schools within their areas and their districts. Recently there has been a public outcry for public school reform and some are pushing for private school vouchers."
Tags: change, reform, US, public, schools, charter, inner, city, homeschool
Abstract This paper explains that, whereas wearing a school uniform was once associated with high-cost exclusive schools, nowadays, there is a growing movement to implement the wearing of school uniforms by students attending publicschools. Although the opposition argues that uniforms prohibit self-expression and strip students of their individuality, the author believes that the implementation of strict uniforms and dress codes are associated with long-term academic, behavioral and social benefits, which improve the educational climate. The paper concludes that a dress code does not superimpose a higher authority on students but rather unites the community and builds character.
From the Paper "Nowadays, students are going to school with inappropriate coverage such as female students using strapless, halter, and midriff tops that show their belly buttons, or using too-short skirts and shorts. Some use shirts with inappropriate slogans and symbols that seem to promote alcohol drinking, cigarette smoking, or placement of vulgar language. Using clothes that are revealing certainly distract students, as sexuality potentially interferes with a child's attention to his academic work."
Tags: symbols, school colors, individuality attitude pride
Abstract This paper examines the issue of holding prayers in publicschools, whether they are mandatory or not. It examines the legal and moral aspects of this issue from the point of view of the three major religions. It details the First Amendment and several cases dealing with this matter and their outcomes. It details different ways of dealing with this problem and ways that are legal to implement it.
From the Paper "In 1947, when the Supreme Court was debating the issue of the separation of church and state, Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black remarked, "The First Amendment has erected a wall between church and state. That wall must be kept high and impregnable." With the case of Lee v. Weisman, the Court drew a distinct line between what is constitutional and what is unconstitutional. The case involved the practice in Providence, Rhode Island, of having a short prayer at the beginning and end of public school graduation ceremonies (an invocation and a benediction). The audience at these ceremonies was made up primarily of students and parents. The Court had to decide whether this short prayer was like the prayers recited to open legislative sessions, or like the daily prayers in public school in front of impressionable schoolchildren. This was not an easy decision to make. Four justices thought that the prayers at public school graduation ceremonies were more in the nature of a formality at a public event. These justices believed that the prayers were part of a long tradition, like prayers at legislative sessions, and could not be seen as an attempt to indoctrinate children in a particular religious belief. The other five justices did not agree and ruled that such prayers violate the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. Justice Kennedy, who wrote the majority opinion, held that while attendance at public school graduation ceremonies is not required, few students would want to miss the ceremony. While the children could absent themselves from the part of the ceremony that contained the prayer, that would be difficult for them because of the very nature of the graduation process. There would also be peer pressure to participate and to not "make a fuss" about the prayer. The Court ruled that because the graduation ceremony is part of an official public school event, prayers cannot be allowed. (CARELLI 2000)."
Abstract This paper looks at uniforms in publicschools including the reasons for them, the effects they have on student behavior and performance and the reasons people are against uniforms. It discusses how many schools now have mandatory school uniforms and dress codes and how effective they are, as well as attitudes about them.
From the Paper "The idea of uniforms in public schools is one that comes up periodically and always causes gives rise to much debate among students, parents, teachers and school administrators. Opinions differ markedly with some of the opinion that requiring uniforms is ..."
Abstract This paper shows how art is an important part of education that is dying in many publicschools. The writer examines how budget cuts often shift priorities to basic subjects leaving children without a formal art education. The paper states that art is a valuable tool that teaches children to communicate and also augments the learning process in subjects such as mathematics and language. Many studies have found that when children are exposed to art, it has valuable effects on their learning process.
From the Paper "When implemented in public schools, art helps raise self-confidence while creating problem solving skills and communication. Unlike math and reading, when children create art they are always successful because there is no right or wrong in art. This gives a child a sense of achievement and success, raising their academic self-confidence. Art also helps children figure out how they want to express themselves, thus building problem-solving skills. Art focuses on making your internal thoughts external images or sounds creating a superior way for children to learn to communicate effectively. When you take all of these factors and apply them to a child's education the result is obvious. Studies show that the cognitive skills and spatial reasoning that art offers are essential for math. The communication of art often helps children become more successful in language classes. When a student becomes involved in an art program, the drop out rate dramatically decreases. Art is an exciting and fun way for students to feel more successful in school."
Abstract A paper concerning the pros and cons of assessment in special education and publicschools. Included are the guidelines for reading and writing assessments, NAEP and why education is the nations number one concern.
