School Sucks

Essay by PaperNerd ContributorCollege, Undergraduate August 2001

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Lately there has been a great deal of angst surrounding Ontario's educational system, not to mention upheaval within it. Teachers, now so unappreciated, are departing from the field quickly. Parents suffer frustration and worry, and the government claims no fault and brushes off those who care, or wish to debate the changes frankly. Even the curriculum must be sewn together again. All of the involved parties tremble with concern as the cameras roll, while professing that they are doing it all for the students. Perhaps it is this drama which interests me. I did not attend a public educational institution until the ninth grade, before this I was home- schooled. Basically, I had a wonderful childhood, free of tests and deadlines, bullies and hotdog days. When I finally did go to school, I found that it was much more easy than I thought it would be. When I listen to the changes that are being made in education, and when I look at many of my peers, I see that the government, teachers, and parents are wandering yet more far afield.

Home- schooling gave and taught me many things which educational rule-makers might do well do consider before simply allotting a new exam. Creativity is not simply about painting or writing, testing is questionable, and reading is key.

Creativity is not merely meant to be an exercise in writing or painting, it can offer much more. Giving children, especially young ones, time and encouragement to be creative will help to expand their imaginations, which will feed both themselves and society. For example, creative writing may teach a child to enjoy writing, which will both enhance skills like spelling and grammar, and provide a fun activity. When I have an opportunity to write creatively in school I invest myself in that...