In 1820, Thomas Jefferson wrote to William Jarvis stating, "I know no safe depositary of the ultimate powers of the society but the people themselves; and if we think them not enlightened enough to exercise their control with a wholesome discretion, the remedy is not to take it from them, but to inform their discretion by education." Roughly one hundred and eighty eight years later, our country is still trying to decide upon the best way to “inform [this] discretion.” When Jefferson uttered these remarks, public education as we know it did not exist so we’ll probably never know how he aimed to accomplish this ideal. Fast forward to 2009 and these comments put forth by Barack Obama in his first presidential address to congress:
Already, we have made a historic investment in education through the economic recovery plan… But we know that our schools don't just need more resources. They need more reform. That is why this budget creates new incentives for teacher performance; pathways for advancement, and rewards for success. We'll invest in innovative programs that are already helping schools meet high standards and close achievement gaps. And we will expand our commitment to charter schools.
It is our responsibility as lawmakers and educators to make this system work. But it is the responsibility of every citizen to participate in it. And so tonight, I ask every American to commit to at least one year or more of higher education or career training. This can be community college or a four-year school; vocational training or an apprenticeship. But whatever the training may be, every American will need to get more than a high school diploma. And dropping out of high school is no longer an option. It's not just quitting on yourself, it's quitting on your country — and this country needs and values the talents of every American. That is why we will provide the support necessary for you to complete college and meet a new goal: By 2020, America will once again have the highest proportion of college graduates in the world.
After hearing our new president deliver this address, I began to digest the richness of his message. Like it or not, education has truly become the great equalizer. In Jefferson’s day, education was a privilege of the wealthy and powerful. As we’ve grown and matured as a nation, we’ve come to recognize the importance of an education for all of our citizens, regardless of socioeconomic class. Past administrations have lent varied levels of support for our public education system, yet no one ever disagrees with the premise that with a solid education, there is nothing a young adult cannot do.
As I heard Obama vocalize his commitment to innovative programs and charter schools, highlighting the correlation between self-improvement and betterment of country, I could not help but be impacted. I am more certain than ever that public education is evolving in this country. The message of hope heard throughout Obama’s campaign, inciting a new level of inspiration and optimism in this country is trickling down to our local community. The ability for students to choose their own educational paths, find inspiration, and achieve success is an asset to the community and the world at large. I am confident that Animas high school will be the embodiment of this change right here in Durango.
Author’s Note*** Immediately Inspired….YES, Immediately Articulate….NO! I want to thank all the parents, board members and especially my wife Rachel who helped me express and refine my reactions and thoughts related to Obama’s latest address. Change is coming Durango! Have a terrific weekend…
