What do we want?

Many people ask these simple questions, "Why can't our students reach the No Child Left Behind Standards?" "Why is the achievement gap between minorities and whites, rich and poor, urban and suburban, girls and boys, tall and short, thin and husky etc. widening?" These questions are not as complex as one might think. Actually, it's pretty simple. The question is, are we truly ready to close this gap? Once we are ready to explore the last question, in detail and with no curtains closed, then, and only then can we have this very important conversation.

The question and/or conversation should not be about closing an achievemnet gap that is irrelevant, but rather one that explores our inability to create critical thinkers who can articulate, evaluate, synthesize and ultimately, create. 

I would be remiss if I did not make this disclaimer... I do not blame any of the parties that I am about to mention in this article. All of the individuals and organizations work extremely hard at their craft and need to be praised for their diligent efforts. There are no parties who are exempt from the achievement gap. Parents, teachers, principals, superintendents, mayors, city councils, state legislators, governors, presidents and corporate america all have a nickel in this dime.

There can not be any finger pointing. There must not be any backdoor deals or reference to "How much is this going to cost?" If we really want to make the changes that need to be made, we must all align ourselves to one common goal... The education of our children.

We must begin this conversation by asking ourselves a simple question, "What do we want." Simple isn't it. When we are honest with our answer to that question, then we can begin. It's almost like being in a relationship with your partner and you never have the conversation with that person that pertains to each others wants. If you do not know what you want, how do you know where you are going?