Reflection on Part IV


    Part IV looks at how money and business ideas started to shape public education. During that time, schools faced more pressure to show results, mainly through standardized testing. In 1983, the government released a report called A Nation at Risk, which warned that American students were not keeping up with students from other countries. This led to big reforms, pushing schools to improve by setting higher standards and relying on test scores. However, this often made education more about memorizing facts for tests instead of real learning. Looking back, the focus on test scores and business-style reforms had both good and bad effects. On one hand, schools became more aware of student achievement gaps and tried to raise standards. On the other hand, too much focus on test results limited creativity, critical thinking, and emotional learning. Many of the issues from this time are still relevant today. Standardized testing, school choice, and education fairness are still being debated. 
    There was a section of Part IV that I could relate to. The author on page 189 states, "By 1982, educators in East Harlem required that all junior high students choose a school, whether alternative or regular; no schools would be assigned." I used to live in Queens, New York. I remember going through the process of figuring out what high school I wanted to go to and how stressful it seemed. I had to start choosing schools during 7th grade so I could start applying during 8th grade and get accepted to a school before I graduated junior high. The high school I wanted to go to was located in Manhattan. It didn't just have 9th to 12th grade but also 6th grade to 8th grade as well. It was for children who wanted a career in music. I wanted to become a famous singer at that time so to me it was a good choice. It was similar to applying for college or university. We had to submit transcripts, recommendation letters, applications, and more.
    The documentary The Lottery looks at the struggles of families trying to give their children a better education. It follows four kids in New York City as they enter a lottery for a spot in a charter school. The film shows how the public school system is failing many students, especially in low-income neighborhoods, and how parents are desperate for better options. One of the most heartbreaking moments is when the lottery results are announced. It was difficult to see the families who were so hopeful, only to be let down when their child’s name wasn’t called. It makes you realize how unfair it is that a child’s future can be decided by luck instead of opportunity. Overall, The Lottery makes a strong case that every child deserves a good education, no matter where they live. It leaves you thinking about how important education is and why more needs to be done to give all students a fair chance at success. 





Melanie Mora










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