It is a tragedy that schools in poor urban areas receive significantly lower funding than rich suburban areas do. It is also a shame the teachers there are worse. I think that this all contributes to the poor graduation rates for Blacks and Hispanics, 52% and 57% respectively. We need to make the funding for schools equal and make sure that all schools are equipped with the same quality instructors.

Living in Michigan has allowed me to see firsthand the failure of the public school system. In Detroit, the graduation rate is 21.7%, the worst in the ENTIRE nation! It’s hard to see any change on the horizon. President Obama has made promises, but so did President Bush with his “No Child Left Behind” act. It is my opinion that Washington is making empty promises to appease the public.

Even if they are trying, nothing can really be done to help the current system. The money that goes to schools comes from property taxes which greatly effects the poorer communities. This leaves them with less money to buy books and school supplies for their students.

We need to create a more socialized school system. I know we live in a time where “socialism” is political taboo, but I really think it is the only way that we can achieve true reform. Imagine a system where every school receives equal funding(in proportion to the amount of students) and they all have good instructors. Surely anyone would prefer a system like that to the current one we have.

The education you receive should not be based on the area you live in. Everyone should receive the same, quality education.