Am I really angry at the government, or do I just have never-ending angst problems?

Question

No Child Left Behind has destroyed my high school. Because of budget cuts, but local school committee (which I also despise), has made these changes:

Elimination of honors history programs

Only 25 total students are allowed in any honors course

The greatest band director in the state has been cut

Athletics may be cut

We have no options for classes

There are no AP courses

So many of these things scew me over. I plan on going into anthropology for college (history needed), I'm an all-state oboe player AND cross country runner, the lack of APs makes it more difficult for me to get scholarships for colleges I really want to go to and I cannot take classes that would be useful for my future.

I'm not trying to be emo and whiny about this. Believe me, I know that my life is WAY better than the lives of most people in the world. And I'm really not even complaining about my life at all. I'm just sick of what the government is doing to the education system. I've even protested and spoke (quite eloquently, may I add) at various school committee meetings, but the committee just keeps on ignoring all of us and acting like a bunch of idiots.

Answer 1

I feel that the "No child left behind" concept is good. Probably not executed as well as it could be and improvements can definitely be made.

As for your problem with not being able to take AP classes due to lack of availability in your school, have you tried looking at taking classes at a local community college? Where I am, high school students who qualify can take certain classes if space is available.  A lot of history class options should be available to you.

I don't think you're being emo (this term cracks me up). I think it's good that you value getting a good education but try not to blame programs that is trying to help those struggling. I also don't think the committee is ignoring you. The school system is bound by certain rules as well, if they don't pass a certain level they lose more funding and possible school shut down.

Maybe you can start a mentoring/tutoring program in your school that pairs high achieving students with those that need academic help. This can look good on college applications, if the school acknowledges through letters of recommendation. This can help you, the student who needs help and the school because the teachers would get extra help and not be so overwhelmed.

Good luck.

  

Answer 2

i think the school does a fine enough job.  it makes you smart enough to get a job, but dumb enough to convince you life is about going to college and after that life is peaches and cream.  sounds like they put your priorities strait.

Answer 3

Get on with your life, and do what is best for you. Quit blaming all your frustrations and anger on the government. Be a happy person. You don't want to go on the rest of your life being a miserable person. Grow some balls quit worrying about the piddly stuff!