Equality in education

​The other day in one of our local newspapers I read about a private school that held Grandparents Day.  The Grandparent’s Day has also become a fundraiser for the school.  The school has been able to raise quite a bit of money in the last few years using Grandparents Day as a fundraiser.
 
This is a great idea for raising money.  The Grandparents are happy to support the education of their grandchildren.  It is out of love and caring that they are excited to donate to such a good cause.
 
While this is a great way to include families in supporting education, I can’t help but be a little sad.  “What is wrong with you?” one might say.  I know – it’s crazy, because the kids in this school deserve the best education and a quality school environment.  I should be joyful that these students are being provided with the best resources.  My sadness comes in thinking that ALL students deserve this.  Sad that there are families that could never afford this type of school.   Sad that some might not even meet the requirements set forth by this type of school.  Why can’t all kids have access to equal opportunities in education?    
 
Even public schools have differences in what they are able to provide their students.  Look at a public school in Carmel, Indiana and compare that to an inner city school in Detroit.  You will notice differences in environments and resources.      
 
This isn’t to say good things are not happening in schools that are in need of repair and where resources are few.  There are dedicated teachers wanting to make a difference in these schools.  We should always be aware that no matter the environment or resources, the teacher is the biggest difference in student achievement.  But it sure would make the life of teachers and students easier if they had equal access to facilities and resources.  I wish I had the answer on how to make schooling more equitable.  I don’t have the answer. 
 
This is one of the frustrations of public school teachers who are committed to meeting the needs of children.  How can they compete with schools that charge tuition and that can raise thousands from one Grandparents Day?  In some schools, teachers would have to look carefully at the purpose for even having a Grandparents Day.
 
All kids deserve a quality education in a safe and pleasant environment.  York kindergarten is a thought that maybe we can provide a free, “private” school experience for those in need, for those who need it the most.
 
BEcky