While it is true that every school system that man can think of seems to be flawed, there are some aspects of the education system that would defiantly benefit if it were to be changed. Education is something that every individual experiences to go through to life on a daily basis, whether it is at home for those less fortunate, or be at the highest ranking public or private school in the spectrum. Education, I believe , is taken too likely, considering it is usually the first to get cut back from, and it fluctuates so much from region to region. In a perfect world this gap between the education system would be narrowed down and life as we know it would discover a world full of inspiring intellectuals.
In a perfect world I believe the government and/or state would take other actions when shaping school systems. And even though some may say that money isn’t everything in education, I do still believe that it has a major impact on the support system, even in a perfect world. Because of this I think that the American Recovery Act should have more emphasis, which would help divide the economic portion of schools. Which also I deem as a major problem that needs to be addressed. In a perfect world the division of spending would not be on reconstruction of perfectly good gyms (such as in Norte Vista) but rather in providing more supplies so each student has a desk to sit in (rather than the floor with a clip board!) and text books to have at home and school. I also money would be deviated for the pay of educated and degree earning teachers. More money would be given to teachers so there would be better teachers. Also the government would not let teachers get away with having relationships with their students in all 50 states. This would then make the firing of a teacher process not as long and tedious. Lastly, the state definitely would NOT cut back on the school hours in a day, for any school, there might even be a couple of extra hours in a day for tutoring or any other thing the state deems justifiable.
Aside from the state, classes would also have changes in this perfect world, if there ever were to be one. And what I find what would be the most beneficial to school systems, are smaller class sizes. With smaller class sizes, or larger student to ratio figures, and more interactive learning, I believe that students would have a better learning environment. Also, as for the standards, I think there should be higher standards, but not for the written ones, but more of higher expectations. In this perfect world, there would not be “lower and normal classes” and instead there would be all challenging classes. These classes would be fully embraced by each student. This also ties in with another aspect of those higher expectations, which would be college. In this world, college would be just another step in education that everybody planned on attending; there would be no debate on college (the only debate would be on which college to choose). In addition to the classroom portion or this education system, there would be less tolerance for trouble makers. These individuals do not deserve to take up both the teacher’s and student’s opportunity of learning. Or even better, there would not be any trouble makers, and everybody would have the same aspiring dream of earning the best education that they can get. And lastly, the teachers in the classroom would have to be certified to work at the level of education that they apply for (such as elementary, middle, or high school). I do not believe that teachers are interchangeable, some were born to be elementary teachers and others high school teachers (and if each wants to change their level, they should have to go through proper training and evaluations).
Ultimately it comes down to the students, and how much effort they are willing to contribute to earn their own education. Within this education system, I do believe that there should be resources that the students have access to, like laptops in classrooms, and tutoring before and after school every day. Also there would be more parent involvement, which would keep students on track both at school and at home. One way to do this would be to have parent conferences at least quarterly. Also in this system students would have more involvement in the classes that they would want to take. So instead of taking 3 years in a subject that would not help them in their future career, they could take a class that would help them in the subject they want to major in. And along with this, there would be more choices in classes. There would be more languages to choose from, more history classes, maybe an extra sociology class, or even more psychology, there would be a wide range for each student. Also students would be able to take summer school classes, not just because they failed, but because they want to get ahead, or even take interesting classes to better their skills, like creative writing. All of these would be great benefits, but then again, students are students, and there would need to be some incentives for them to learn. Because face it, most students are not fully educated-driven and they need a little push every now and then. In elementary they would be rewarded for their grades and attendance, in middle school there would be rewards for their grades, and in high school there would be the pleasure of getting off campus if you are passing all your classes, which would make students strive for more (it would be cash rewards, half would go to them to spend as they like and half would go towards a college fund).
While others tend to look at jobs as the greatest factor in the US I feel that education is right side by side to it, if not even higher (as a concerning factor in the US). The main reason that I find it so important is not because it affects me directly in this moment in time, but rather because the students that are being educated today are the future leaders that shape tomorrow’s government, and society! Byahhhhh!!!!
-Reyna Lanzas
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
continue
Even so, there is an alternate side of this bill that does not look so highly on SB 1070. The main issue concerning this bill is its relation to racial profiling, which scares and infuriates many. Many illegal immigrants come to places like Arizona and California because “People desire to migrate because of freedom” (Tapia, 2010) they should not be punished for their desire. Many see the issue as not concerning, considering their causes; to move and reach lands with more opportunities and rights of not having to show identification under certain circumstances. Another reason for the ridding of SB 1070 is the fact that this would wipe out a large population, including Latinos. There has already been accounts for decreasing populations and found that “Latinos…are highly flexible, highly exploitable work force, a buffer to economic downturns…[and many industries] are massively dependent on undocumented workers” (Haq, 2010). With the decreasing work force Arizona is bound to go into an economic downfall. This be seen especially in tourist companies such as the Arizona Inn in Tuscan, who stated that “12 customers canceled reservations or said that they would not return to the state because of the law” (Archibold, 2010). This would also cause Arizona to go into an economic collapse. SB 1070 causes for unconstitutional violations and altercation in Arizona’s economy.
As a result, while one might presume that the SB 1070 aids Arizona’s criminal data, it in fact may cause more damage than may have hoped for. So by allowing immigrants more opportunities and less racial discrimination, the SB 1070 would serve better uncertified.
Citations
Archibold, Ronald C. "America Enacts Stringent Law on Immigration" The New York Times, 23 April 2010. Web. 12 July 2010
"Hispanics Abandon Arizona, Fleeing Economy, Immigration Law - CSMonitor.com." The Christian Science Monitor - CSMonitor.com. Web. 13 July 2010.
Husna Haq. “Hispanics abandon Arizona, fleeing economy, immigration law”. The Christian Science Monitor. June 10, 2010. Web. 13, July.
http://www.fairus.org/site/DocServer/USCostStudy_2010.pdf?docID=4921
As a result, while one might presume that the SB 1070 aids Arizona’s criminal data, it in fact may cause more damage than may have hoped for. So by allowing immigrants more opportunities and less racial discrimination, the SB 1070 would serve better uncertified.
Citations
Archibold, Ronald C. "America Enacts Stringent Law on Immigration" The New York Times, 23 April 2010. Web. 12 July 2010
"Hispanics Abandon Arizona, Fleeing Economy, Immigration Law - CSMonitor.com." The Christian Science Monitor - CSMonitor.com. Web. 13 July 2010.
Husna Haq. “Hispanics abandon Arizona, fleeing economy, immigration law”. The Christian Science Monitor. June 10, 2010. Web. 13, July.
http://www.fairus.org/site/DocServer/USCostStudy_2010.pdf?docID=4921
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Immigration
The concept of Immigration is not a new topic; however it has attracted an enormous amount of attention in the media and government. This spotlight is due to the passing of Senate Bill 1070 in Arizona, and its specifications. Because immigration tends to be an emotional topic, there are generally two highly diverted positions, illustrating whether you are for or against the proposed bill. So being a student with not much political influence, I have to address this bill in a manner that concerns my lifestyle views, and possibly my family views to evaluate my opinion. When evaluating the issue, I would have to say that I oppose the bill considering its vague regulations (which may ultimately lead to racial profiling) and the seemingly unsound success it will have, considering its possible economic downfall.
Being passed through the government thus far proves SB 1070 to have liable reasons to create such a bill and expectations that will be followed. The main defense that individuals state for passing the bill is that it will reduce the crime rate in this state. This is a greatly attractive benefit from the bill. Some may even argue that illegal immigrants should not be allowed because of their lack of paying taxes. This is because when economic and social status decreases, “there is a greater burden placed on the federal taxpayer because of welfare and related assistance programs provided for the jobless and illegal aliens” (Martin, 2010). It will also allow for an improved environment. So because “people want the federal government to do their job” by allowing better security of aliens Brewer believes that “if [the government] won’t do it, then the states will do it” (Stone, 2010). By having the states take a part they believe the job will precede with much more ease than with the Federal Government. In addition, Brewer had also mentioned the fact that an illegal individual is a crime and not a race, and actions should be made. Taking this into account, Governor Jan Brewer insisted in her press conference that the state has been debating immigration with the federal government for a sufficient amount of time for them to comply; however the federal government has not done anything to help the security of the boarder and immigration issues. Being said, Governor Brewer stands tall in her defense on passing the SB 1070, because of the explained reasons.
Being passed through the government thus far proves SB 1070 to have liable reasons to create such a bill and expectations that will be followed. The main defense that individuals state for passing the bill is that it will reduce the crime rate in this state. This is a greatly attractive benefit from the bill. Some may even argue that illegal immigrants should not be allowed because of their lack of paying taxes. This is because when economic and social status decreases, “there is a greater burden placed on the federal taxpayer because of welfare and related assistance programs provided for the jobless and illegal aliens” (Martin, 2010). It will also allow for an improved environment. So because “people want the federal government to do their job” by allowing better security of aliens Brewer believes that “if [the government] won’t do it, then the states will do it” (Stone, 2010). By having the states take a part they believe the job will precede with much more ease than with the Federal Government. In addition, Brewer had also mentioned the fact that an illegal individual is a crime and not a race, and actions should be made. Taking this into account, Governor Jan Brewer insisted in her press conference that the state has been debating immigration with the federal government for a sufficient amount of time for them to comply; however the federal government has not done anything to help the security of the boarder and immigration issues. Being said, Governor Brewer stands tall in her defense on passing the SB 1070, because of the explained reasons.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Afghanistan hw conversation
Per our conversation at the end of class today, I want you to have a conversation with someone (parent, sibling, relative, friend, or peer). After you have your conversation, write a reaction to your conversation.
One might assume that most in the United States have a good knowledge around the war in Afghanistan; however I found a couple people that had similar views of mine (before the seminar). I decided to talk to my parents, to get an opinion from those who might remember than my generation. However I did also talk to two of my other friends, to compare the thoughts. With each group, I found that they knew little of what was going on, why it was caused, and the progress that we’ve made over these nine years. The first discussion was with my parents, whom I informed about what I learned in the class. They had known about the oil that they held but had not known about the other minerals that made Afghanistan so valuable. Understanding that their government is corrupt, they both agreed that we have been in this war far too long, and there has been sufficient time given to try and help Afghanistan.
My dad did bring up the interesting idea that we could send troops from Afghanistan and train them here in the US, but that would bring up problems. Some of these would include the different environment, and the costly measures that would need to be taken for transportation. They had also agreed that the worry of being attacked is not as great as the lives lost from the war so it would be better to leave. So instead of trying to keep them happy, we could strengthen our defense, from Afghanistan and other countries. Because my mom was unaware of the minerals her view has slightly changed on whether or not we should stay in the war. Now she does want to get out because of the lives, however she does not want China to come in and become more powerful than they already are. As for my dad he thinks that we could help by being there, but it is at too much risk to stay with the money spent and the lives lost, with slow progress.
My friends knew somewhat more about the war because of the history classes. They believe that good is being done and if you compare the mortality numbers to previous wars, there have been far worse ones. Yes it has taken a long time to get where we are, but they believed everything we’ve done would be a waste if we leave. They also say that the troops are doing well for the country. And since this is a fight against terrorism, it can be expected to last longer than others, because the US would need the first years to get the government in order and the remaining to fight step by step to prevent terrorism as much as possible. They think that the supplies and alliance with them after helping is worth the war.
I found that these conversations were interesting, especially to find two groups of ages and of different opinions. I informed them of all that I knew, and had some changing opinions. I was also interested to find that my parents had similar views, which could be because of the household. Yet those that did not live with me saw it at a more political level than economically or socially. All in all, we will have to wait to see what may come of the war. I look forward to discussing the immigration topic!
-Reyna Lanzas
One might assume that most in the United States have a good knowledge around the war in Afghanistan; however I found a couple people that had similar views of mine (before the seminar). I decided to talk to my parents, to get an opinion from those who might remember than my generation. However I did also talk to two of my other friends, to compare the thoughts. With each group, I found that they knew little of what was going on, why it was caused, and the progress that we’ve made over these nine years. The first discussion was with my parents, whom I informed about what I learned in the class. They had known about the oil that they held but had not known about the other minerals that made Afghanistan so valuable. Understanding that their government is corrupt, they both agreed that we have been in this war far too long, and there has been sufficient time given to try and help Afghanistan.
My dad did bring up the interesting idea that we could send troops from Afghanistan and train them here in the US, but that would bring up problems. Some of these would include the different environment, and the costly measures that would need to be taken for transportation. They had also agreed that the worry of being attacked is not as great as the lives lost from the war so it would be better to leave. So instead of trying to keep them happy, we could strengthen our defense, from Afghanistan and other countries. Because my mom was unaware of the minerals her view has slightly changed on whether or not we should stay in the war. Now she does want to get out because of the lives, however she does not want China to come in and become more powerful than they already are. As for my dad he thinks that we could help by being there, but it is at too much risk to stay with the money spent and the lives lost, with slow progress.
My friends knew somewhat more about the war because of the history classes. They believe that good is being done and if you compare the mortality numbers to previous wars, there have been far worse ones. Yes it has taken a long time to get where we are, but they believed everything we’ve done would be a waste if we leave. They also say that the troops are doing well for the country. And since this is a fight against terrorism, it can be expected to last longer than others, because the US would need the first years to get the government in order and the remaining to fight step by step to prevent terrorism as much as possible. They think that the supplies and alliance with them after helping is worth the war.
I found that these conversations were interesting, especially to find two groups of ages and of different opinions. I informed them of all that I knew, and had some changing opinions. I was also interested to find that my parents had similar views, which could be because of the household. Yet those that did not live with me saw it at a more political level than economically or socially. All in all, we will have to wait to see what may come of the war. I look forward to discussing the immigration topic!
-Reyna Lanzas
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Most Important Economic Issue
In your opinion, what is the most important economical issue facing the United States right now?
Despite the various tribulations that the United States faces including the education reduction, extreme amounts of money spent towards prisoners, two wars, and of course the recession, I would have to say the most obvious, especially within the last few years, would be the unemployment rates. This is because it interests peoples of all ages of all genders. It can be seen from ultimately all classes, whether we look at middle class or upper class. Rates are increasing, and the government is cutting back in all areas including education (seen firsthand) and even in the medical industry. It was expressed that “The share of families with an unemployed member rose from 7.8 percent in 2008 to 12.0 percent in 2009, the highest proportion since the data series began in 1994” (CPS of the Bureau of Labor Statistics). What makes this issue so vital is the fact that the statistics appear to be increasing.
Along with the loss of a job, unemployment also is trailed by many many supplementary issues involving a decrease in that homes income (obviously) and the disruption of the community, possibly increasing crime rates. It may also cause many to suffer a lower income rate than from their previous occupation. Some are even left to lie on their own, with no benefits and little need in the tight work areas. Because of this well known situation it has brought some to their breaking point, leaving them hopeless. For example, “A record 1.21 million people want to work, but said they aren't looking because of the weak labor market” ( Tami Luhby Senior Writer CNNMoney). It is also said that the economy and unemployment is one of the top reasons for suicides and many other life endangering events.
Sure the unemployment rates may fluctuate by one or two percent every couple months but all in all the rates are still too high. This makes it difficult for middle aged individuals and even the younger youth to try and take control on their economic status. Unemployment has not only an effect on an individual level, but also contributes to the global economic crisis that many have tried so hard to fish themselves out of. With many families having to cope under this situation I would have to say the unemployment crisis is definitely a major and most important issue of which the United States faces.
- Reyna Lanzas
Despite the various tribulations that the United States faces including the education reduction, extreme amounts of money spent towards prisoners, two wars, and of course the recession, I would have to say the most obvious, especially within the last few years, would be the unemployment rates. This is because it interests peoples of all ages of all genders. It can be seen from ultimately all classes, whether we look at middle class or upper class. Rates are increasing, and the government is cutting back in all areas including education (seen firsthand) and even in the medical industry. It was expressed that “The share of families with an unemployed member rose from 7.8 percent in 2008 to 12.0 percent in 2009, the highest proportion since the data series began in 1994” (CPS of the Bureau of Labor Statistics). What makes this issue so vital is the fact that the statistics appear to be increasing.
Along with the loss of a job, unemployment also is trailed by many many supplementary issues involving a decrease in that homes income (obviously) and the disruption of the community, possibly increasing crime rates. It may also cause many to suffer a lower income rate than from their previous occupation. Some are even left to lie on their own, with no benefits and little need in the tight work areas. Because of this well known situation it has brought some to their breaking point, leaving them hopeless. For example, “A record 1.21 million people want to work, but said they aren't looking because of the weak labor market” ( Tami Luhby Senior Writer CNNMoney). It is also said that the economy and unemployment is one of the top reasons for suicides and many other life endangering events.
Sure the unemployment rates may fluctuate by one or two percent every couple months but all in all the rates are still too high. This makes it difficult for middle aged individuals and even the younger youth to try and take control on their economic status. Unemployment has not only an effect on an individual level, but also contributes to the global economic crisis that many have tried so hard to fish themselves out of. With many families having to cope under this situation I would have to say the unemployment crisis is definitely a major and most important issue of which the United States faces.
- Reyna Lanzas
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