So, now we are at least clear on one item. The President of a large educators’ union concurs that the Common Core Curriculum, imposed upon public schools in nearly all states, means to prepare young persons to simply “confront the new economy.” This occurs while the affluent amongst us, who will not experience anything like the Common Core, are empowered to shape the economy and our society. One population to work the economy, the other to rule it. Very quaint, indeed.
Education is fundamental to the continuing development of a citizenry that drives a nation’s global competitiveness and social and economic prosperity. However, in a democracy, the purpose of public education is not first and foremost economic. Quality public education serves “to provide students with the opportunity to realize their potential and develop into highly skilled, knowledgeable, caring citizens who contribute to their society” (the Education Act of Ontario).
Instead of framing economies as things to be “confronted,” they should be imagined as inviting participation!