Improving Public Education
Improving Public Education in the United States In today’s time and tough economy a good education must be a top priority. Are our children receiving the best education possible? America was once the best educated nation in the world. Now the United States ranks seventeenth out of forty countries in overall educational performance according to The Learning Curve report, developed by the Economist Intelligence Unit. (US 17th In Global Education Ranking, par. 1) These higher ranking countries promote a culture that is supportive of education and the understanding of the importance of good teachers in improving educational output. To improve our education system we must place a greater emphasis on the early education, parent involvement and quality teachers. By doing this we will be able to become one of the top ranking nations again. Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Early learning education is a far greater tool for success. (The Importance of Early Childhood Education, par. 1) Studies have shown that a child’s earliest years of development are the most critical with 85% of the brain developing by age five. Since children are most receptive to information during this time, early learning exposure plays an essential role in fostering mental development. The years prior to kindergarten are critical in shaping key academic, social, and cognitive skills that determine a child’s success in school and life. A high-quality early learning program can help children arrive in kindergarten ready to succeed. Expanding access to high quality early childhood education is among the smartest investments that we can make. Participation in high-quality early learning programs, like Head Start, public and private preschool, and childcare, will provide children from all backgrounds with a strong start and a foundation for school success. These programs also generate a significant return on investment
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