The Perils of Inadequate Education

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     I read a satirical piece today that, unfortunately, had a tidbit of the truth in its biting satire.  The piece listed that thing that each state does very badly.  It listed Washington State as being the worst at "loving Justin Bieber" but it listed my current state, North Carolina as being THE WORST at education.  Unfortunately, the more I see and my kids and students experience, the more truth I see in that statement.  Being a teacher is increasingly difficult in a place where education is not valued.  That is not to say, of course, that North Carolina is alone in its devaluation of education, but it is making decisions on a regular basis which will affect many young people, educators and citizens in North Carolina for many, many years to come.
     The athletic and academic scandals at the University of North Carolina could have been brought to light before DECADES had passed, but it was more convenient and profitable for all involved (including the unfortunate students) to put their attention on athletics rather than on the pursuit of knowledge.  What kind of "educator" could roll over and let student after student get grades for classes and material that did not even exist?  I cannot even imagine being in a situation where that would be an acceptable option.  And, I must say, at this point, that I have been in some pretty disturbing and desperate situations in my life, and none would have warranted being involved in such a thing.
     So, the very foundations of education and the pursuit of knowledge have been shaken, as has my faith that there are politicians and voters in my adopted state that have any interest in what happens to anyone else, just as long as their pockets have been filled.  It has taken a steady decline in education here for me to realize that change will not be enacted easily nor willingly.  I have colleagues in many states and cities, and their plights of "teaching to the test" and not having the time to impart knowledge are very similar to my own.
     Education, knowledge and problem-solving skills are essential our success as citizens, human beings and brothers and sisters in the fight for the survival of our planet and our species.  If there are not people in power here and in other world governments who do not recognize this, it is time for each and every one of us to do our part to make sure that new people with these goals in mind are installed at the earliest opportunity.