By Deziree Garrick Our cities across the country were organized in a meticulous way that not only promoted, but ensured the survival of segregation. In the 21st century, it seems that there is little that can be done about the socio-economic gap between residents of urban and suburban communities. However, fixing urban educational school systems would alleviate much of the gap between the two worlds. I live in Rochester, New York. I am a student at East High school, a school that is within the Rochester City School District. The borders between my school district and the surrounding suburban districts are the most segregated school district borders in the country. The median household income of a resident in Rochester is $30,000, while in Pittsford, NY, just across the city border, the median household income is $106,000 - a $75,000 difference. My own experience with these inequities is why fixing urban educational systems is a necessary goal for me. It is important to note that I am a part of a small fraction of students in the RCSD, who take the opportunities given to them, and use them to advance our education. Through these various avenues of advancement, inequity between urban and suburban schools became apparent. Over the course of my high school career, I participated in Math League. An example of an inequity I observed year after year, was when we competed, to the best of our ability yet realized our skills were far less than our suburban peers. Our lack of prowess made me wonder why we were so far behind these students, who were the same age as us. When I would ask my teachers why this educational gap existed, the recurring answer was “the curriculum” and preparation for Regents exams instead of deep meaningful understanding. Fixing the inequitable urban educational systems is such an important initiative because it has a direct impact on the socioeconomic status of residents in urban areas. If students are not receiving the resources they need in order to be successful from their current educational system, that system must be changed. There are many students who are disproportionately affected by opportunity gaps. These gaps take a mental toll on the minds of urban youth who begin to subconsciously believe that they are less than their suburban counterparts. In reality, they are just as capable, but have not been afforded the same abundance of resources to encourage and ensure the success that their suburban peers have. I will be a leader in addressing these inequities by completing degrees in African American Studies, Psychology, and Educational Leadership. I will be culturally responsive in rewriting the educational curriculum for urban districts and implement content that have real-life connections for every student. I would ensure that the curriculum being taught, accurately reflects the culture of the students who are being taught. When students know their own history and know about the achievements and struggles based on their ancestry, students are encouraged and want to learn more. I have constantly compared myself to my suburban peers and wondered why my education was not as enriched as theirs. My first-hand experience with inequity is my motivation to fix the urban educational systems within our communities. I am invested in the revitalization of urban educational programs because I want to see my country be more equitable and inclusive. When we have equity and inclusion, our country will be at its best. We will be a less divided nation, ultimately more prosperous, and a new precedent will be set for generations to come by achieving equity and celebrating diversity.
3 Comments
Laura Delehanty
4/29/2021 06:32:32 am
Our current education system is rooted in racist oppression and it will take young people like you to help change it so that it is more equitable and just. All students in America deserve a quality education!
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Tim Wilson
4/29/2021 09:51:19 am
Deziree,
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Susan Meier
5/3/2021 10:43:12 am
Beautifully written and compelling argument. However, I disagree with your first paragraph's assertion that the segregation and economic inequity is not changeable. As a long time educator in suburbs and at East these last seven years, while I applaud your direction in educational leadership, I think you might also think about community organizing, law school, and politics. You are remarkably knowledgeable and clear about your thinking relative to social justice. This gift might be used to change the world. Of course you'll follow your own star, but consider this a suggestion from a stranger impressed with your writing.
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