Laura's Corner
I work very hard and am attending college to obtain my degree in the Human Service field. Writing makes me feel alive and gives me the opportunity to touch those whom I would not be able to otherwise. Last but not least, I have been blessed with two amazing daughters who love me completely and support my dreams. Feel free to contact me with questions, concerns or feedback.
Successful kids in school..
Adults continue to wonder why certain children are ahead of the curve when it comes to education. We believe we have the answer, yet the answers lie within each individual family. Due to this fact, I decided to go beyond our educators and get to the heart of the issue.
Although school was a no-brainer in my family, I was not overly strict regarding studying. I knew my children had different levels of learning when it came to certain subjects, so I felt it best that they created their own habits regarding test taking. At times I felt dumber than a 5th grader and directed my daughters back to their instructors for answers. I do not recall being overly stringent regarding completion of homework yet I did ask about future tests and projects due. I talked with them about school on a regular basis and also attended parent-teacher conferences for updates.
Looking back, I recall being involved in the classroom. I was excited about school and made it a family affair. My younger daughter and I would assist in my older daughter’s Kindergarten classroom. I was able to volunteer my time and impact students with love and acceptance. I became a tutor, befriended my daughter’s instructors and made my presence known. The students called me “Judge Judy” because I was tough and had high expectations regarding behavior within the classroom.
When I felt one of my daughters was wrong or wronged at school, I immediately contacted the instructor or principal to discuss the situation. I wanted my children to know I had their back, yet there would be consequences if the teacher was more right than wrong. One time, my oldest daughter was dared in the 7th grade to write in permanent marker on a playground sign. She eventually confessed wrongdoing. I had her write a letter of apology, read it aloud to the Principal and had her scrub the sign until it was restored to its original condition.
Parents who place education above designer clothing, hair, nails, television, Xbox, internet and cell phones hold the key to their child’s success. If parents are more excited about sports than studies, children will forgo reading in order to play games. Those who focus on eating and television will raise children who are obese and lazy. What about children who live in a household of drugs, threats and violence? When there are daily beatings and degradation, surviving through the night may be the only focus they have. Some of us cannot comprehend nor will we ever live through this type of situation. We will never completely rid the world of abusive parents so it’s time we look within. Instead of making excuses about what we can’t do, we must take the opportunity to make a difference in the life of at least one child.
We are fully responsible for the health and well being of our children. We are also fully responsible regarding their education or lack thereof.
The key to improving education is to change the mindset of the parents. In all honesty, we will never convince each and every parent, yet if we can reach just one, it will make all the difference in the world.
Give your child the gift of education and he will be able to survive the storms.
This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.