Wish List for Reforming No Child Left Behind

                A few weeks ago, President Obama asked Congress to rewrite the No Child Left Behind Law.  Although President Obama did not fully articulate his vision for the rewrite, I would like to humbly offer some suggestions:

School Readiness Program

One of the major problems in public education is the lack of school readiness of some youth entering elementary school.  The lack of school readiness automatically places these youth academically, socially, and behaviorally behind their peers.  The rewrite should include a mandatory summer school readiness program for all youth who have not attended a pre-kindergarten or kindergarten program prior to entering the first grade.  A school readiness program could prepare youth for the academic, social and behavioral expectations of school and give youth an early start on areas of academic weaknesses.  Lastly, a school readiness program could develop an enthusiasm for learning.

Integration of Applied Subjects

                Compared to students in other countries, students in the United States take more elective courses and less academic courses.  The rewrite should include the incorporation of applied classes that would be a requirement for graduation.  Courses such as applied math, chemistry, biology, and technology would demonstrate to students how relevant these subjects are to everyday life situations.  Taking applied courses could also strengthen the core academic subjects and advances subjects. 

Benchmarks to Adulthood

                With rise of school violence on students and staff, it is time to develop benchmarks to adulthood.  The rewrite should include a creation of benchmarks to adulthood that would provide students in K-8 with skills such as character education, etiquette, civics, technology, and peer mediation.  High school students would be provided with career development, independent living, restorative justice, public speaking, technology, and community service.  The Benchmarks to Adulthood could be measured by creating a series of oral or written (essay or multiple choice).

                If public education is expected to educate youth however they arrive to the school door, they have to be given the tools to develop students who are well rounded, productive citizens. By rewriting No Child Left Behind, the country can ensure that youth are being educated and prepared to access the American Dream in a global economy.