A Tarnished Dream

Fact 1:  Eighty percent  (80%) of Americans own seven percent (7%) of the wealth in the United States.

Fact 2:  That means, 10% of Americans own 93% of America's wealth. 

 reported by Ezra Klein, Washington Post

What does the distribution of wealth, in this country, have to do with education?  In the past, education led to increased wages, opportunity, and success. Today, our children see a hazy future, in an uncertain world, filled with inequity. There is a strong and undeniable connection between our economy and education. 

1. The future.  Sure, children love to play. But, children also pay attention to the adult world.  They pay attention to the economic frustrations and challenges that their families face.  If a child's family struggles, the child knows.


2. Inequity.  If a parent slings burgers for a living, chances are good that their children will find an occupation at a similar economic level.  Conversely, if a parent has economic position and power, their child will have a much greater chance of garnering economic opportunities.  Our children know inequity exists.


3. The world.   Children know that some children are poor and some children are hungry. Children also know that some children live in nice homes, wear nice things, and go to nice places.  Our children know the world.

Education should be a tool for mobility.  If children work hard, they should see a future that is bright and filled with opportunity.  In the past this was actually true.  Today, however, our children know that their economic station is etched at birth. Schools cannot make the American Dream be true. Americans must make the American Dream be true.  Make no mistake, our children see us for exactly who we are.