Dear editor,
Does one size always fit all? In some cases, such as a statewide mandate to wear masks where social distancing cannot be maintained, the answer seems to be “yes.” I detest wearing a mask as much as the next person, but it is a protection for both me and the people with whom I come into contact. But is “one size fits all” the best solution for everything?
There are many who believe “one size fits all” works just fine in K-12 education. As a 43-year veteran of teaching, I agree and disagree. Up until the end of their sophomore year, students cover areas which are essential to survive in our society.
Everyone should be exposed to a course in civics to learn how our government works, as well as the history of the country from beginning to the present. Everyone needs to understand how to calculate sums and do math. A certain understanding of grammar, composition, science, business, life skills and many other fields is necessary. One thing that is missing from required curriculum is penmanship.
That said, does every student need to be required to enroll in three or four years of required fields? This is largely a program of study for those who plan to go on to college.
What about those students who have already decided by the beginning of their junior year that college is not for them? Perhaps they will enter the work force right after high school or pursue study in some type of trade school.
Does everyone really need to study upper level courses in presently required areas? What of the student who constantly works on engines, or the one whose sole interest is the fine arts?
Do they all need to take the same required courses?
How would it work to have the students who are going to pursue a trade after high school be apprenticed out to someone in the community who works in the student’s area of interest? Let them be apprenticed to these people for half the day to gain hands-on training.
Those going into other fields should be able to study curriculum which relates to their specific fields instead of being forced into classes unrelated to what they want to do. Some fields require a lot of math and science. Some require other skills.
True, it makes it easier to manage the curriculum if everyone is forced to follow the same course of study. Is it really the best thing for all the students, or should we allow them to diversify into their chosen areas more?
R.W. Lamb, Iola, Kan.
