Education woes linked to national security

The Journal Times has an interesting article that suggests that the nation's security and economic prosperity are at risk if America's schools don't improve.  One of the suggestions is that Structural changes are needed in schools to provide students with more choices in where they can go to school, so many students aren't stuck in under-performing schools.  That is the mission of iForward, to provide students and parents with choices so that they do not have to stay in schools that do not meet their needs.  


It has been a blessing of mine to be able to attend the graduations each spring for our virtual high school.  I am fortunate to get to speak with our students, meet their families, talk with their teachers,  and hear their life stories.  I see their photos depicted in a graduation video as a part of the ceremony.  I see their pride of accomplishment and wish them well as they earn scholarships, plan for college, and are excited for their future.  Some of the celebrations are HUGE because of the struggles of the students and families.    Because of these experiences,  it is clear to me that our students each have unique needs/interests that have brought them to us.  These students are special and important.  


Sometimes our students want a full line of advanced placement courses and only a college preparatory line of study.  These students want to focus on college and their career plans.  They are serious students that want more than a typical high school can staff.  Sometimes our students have other interests and talents such as athletes and artists who can not attend the daily schedule of a typical high school due to training and performance schedules.  Sometimes our students are teen parents who prefer to learn at home while they are with their new child and they may have day care issues.  Sometimes our students have to work to support their families financially through tough economic times.  Sometimes our students have health issues and have to stay at home or in the hospital due to a health situation beyond their control.  Some of our students have been picked on, bullied, and harassed in the brick and mortar school and traditional school is an unpleasant place for them each day.  They prefer a safer environment where they can learn without these hurts.  Sometimes it is the home school student who needs a different teacher besides mom or dad..... so mom and dad can be the guide on the side. 


There are lots of reasons that students attend our charter online high school.  Each one of these reasons is valid and important.  The main point is that students and parents need choices on how they learn and prepare for their future.   While one size (brick and mortar schools) will fit most.......One size does not fit all. That is our specialty.......providing a quality educational choice.  We have talented on-line teachers.  We have multiple ways to learn and multiple pathways to get there.......  a full, robust curriculum for all types of students..... 
because choice matters.

Read more: http://www.journaltimes.com/news/us/panel-says-problem-schools-hurt-nation-s-security/article_8db8e267-47ea-5d36-ac08-c842fe758907.html#ixzz1pgYYTsZy