Parent Conversation: The Current State of Education
*Content provided by our sponsor, the Michigan Education Savings Plan.
By Sharlonda Buckman
Detroit Parent Network has been watching in dismay as the education issues continue to evolve to the detriment of our children and to the poor education conditions in which they are expected to learn. Over the many years when education issues have exploded, parents have been the most important voice for children. On Thursday night, our organization held a meeting to provide an opportunity for parents to speak and to ensure their voice on behalf of their children isn't lost in the cross fire. Parents were also able to lift their thoughts through a survey asking what their top concerns were regarding their child's education today. Over a 24 hour period, hundreds of parents were eager to weigh in. Here is what they shared:
- 71% of Parents were concerned about Teacher Shortages
- 69% of Parents were concerned about Teachers Who Care About Kids
- 64% of Parents were concerned about Effective Teachers
- 55% of Parents were concerned about Building Conditions
- 52% of Parents were concerned about Effective School Security
During the event, we partnered with the Youth Development Commission to offer young people the chance to share their voice in sessions simultaneous to parents. Students thoughtfully expressed some differing views, however like their parents they agreed that the community needs to continue to unite to do what is best for all children and their education. Some felt that many of their teachers were very invested in their learning and understood why educators were taking such actions, while others felt concerned for the thousands of kids losing out on classroom instruction time.
All and all, one message was clear: we will continue to unite as parents of all educational systems and band together as Champions for Children, advocating on behalf of our kids, and settling for nothing less than the very best learning opportunities possible.
Find out more about Detroit Parent Network and join today! You can gain access to trainings, workshops, and parent support groups, among many other benefits. Find out more at http://www.detroitparentnetwork.org/ or on Facebook and Twitter (@DPNdetroit)
