The decline in school test scores and graduation rates in many Democrat-controlled areas has become a significant concern. Since the establishment of the Department of Education in 1979, aimed at centralizing and improving educational standards, results have been mixed, raising questions about the effectiveness of this approach.
In cities like Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles, where Democrats have maintained political dominance for decades, proficiency in core subjects such as reading and math has dropped alarmingly. Many students in these areas struggle to meet basic academic benchmarks, leading to broader concerns about current educational policies and leadership. Despite increased funding and numerous reforms, test scores have stagnated or declined, highlighting systemic failures.
Critics argue that the centralized approach of the Department of Education has led to one-size-fits-all policies that fail to address local educational needs effectively. The emphasis on bureaucratic expansion and policy initiatives often not directly related to classroom teaching is seen as detracting from addressing fundamental educational deficiencies.
Several laws passed by Democrats are cited as contributing to the decline in test scores:
No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) Amendments - While initially bipartisan, amendments and continued support by Democratic lawmakers have led to criticisms about overemphasis on standardized testing, which some argue narrows curriculum and teaching to test preparation.
Common Core State Standards Initiative - Supported by many Democratic leaders, this initiative aimed to standardize education across states. Critics argue it has led to a one-size-fits-all approach that doesn't account for local needs and has resulted in confusion and frustration among educators and students.
Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) - Passed with bipartisan support, it aimed to give more control to states, but some argue it has not effectively replaced the issues left by NCLB, and states heavily influenced by Democratic leadership have struggled with implementation.
Race to the Top Fund - An initiative supported by the Obama administration, it incentivized states to adopt certain educational policies, including the Common Core standards, which has been criticized for promoting a test-centric culture.
Graduation rates in several Democrat-led cities have also been problematic. Many students drop out or graduate without the necessary skills for higher education or the workforce, raising concerns about the long-term socio-economic impacts on communities and the country. The focus on non-academic initiatives, while important, appears to have overshadowed the critical need to improve basic educational outcomes.
This situation has prompted calls for a reevaluation of priorities and strategies to ensure that students receive the foundational education they deserve. Addressing these issues may require a more localized and flexible approach to education policy, emphasizing direct support for classroom teaching and fundamental academic skills.
Pastor Corey Brooks Criticizes Democratic Priorities in Chicago's Education Crisis
Pastor Corey Brooks, known as the "Rooftop Pastor" of New Beginnings Church of Chicago and CEO of Project H.O.O.D., questions Democratic policies regarding education in his community. He highlights the severe reading and math proficiency issues in Chicago schools, where numerous students fail to meet grade-level standards. Brooks criticizes Democrats for focusing on diversity and sensitivity training over fundamental education. He underscores the importance of reading for children's success and questions the intentional neglect of education by those in power.
For the full article, visit The Gateway Pundit.
