Having a child in school offers a ton of responsibility on the part of not just the school or the child but the parents as well. This year I joined the PTSA. It’s a little different than the old school PTA, because the “S represents students who take part in the parent teacher organization programs. My middle son is in the 12th grade and though it obviously took several years for me to realize the importance of these organizations, I figured it out. In these meetings, I’ve learned a lot about what happens at the district level. Being an advocate for my daughter’s healthcare needs over the years should have pushed me in the direction of this organization but it didn’t. As they say, better late than never. Joining the organization showed me a new way to advocate for students that many simply ignore. By getting to know the parties on the committee you get to know the administrators better, understand what makes them tick personally and get a seat at the table to speak on issues that need attention beyond the walls of the school.
One of the issues that seems to plague a lot of parents is the issue of their children going to college. Today’s students feel a lot of pressure to get a college education. Though I believe everyone would benefit from a traditional college education, the truth is not everyone is built to go to a for a traditional college education. With that in mind, it makes one reminisce about the old school trade classes that were offered in high schools all across the nations. Classes like home economics, welding, auto repair and others are now seen at mostly technical high schools.These schools often have long waiting lists and sometimes kids that start programs they never really want to finish. When trades based classes were offered in schools kids had the opportunity to try multiple trades while still having classes that kept them on track for college. Today’s kids are often more innovative than ever and need to see a host of options. This issue also speaks to those who are creatives like fashion designers and other entrepreneurial type kids who seem to get lost in the sauce.
Parents need to step up and speak up for their kids when they know their child does not fit the traditional college mold. They need to join organizations like PTSA, bo to school board meetings and truly get involved. Doing so can open up doors for children of all types but especially the ones who aren’t college bound. Just because they don’t want a traditional college education does not mean they don’t deserve the same chance at success.
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Aleasa Word is an emotional intelligence coach, speaker, author, and consultant. She is a former editor of the Raising Boys Section of the Good Men Project and continues to provide content to support the efforts for the purpose of ensuring all men and those who care for them have a voice in support of their success.
