VOL. XIII, NO. 8
FEBRUARY 25, 1972

Is Education Different Today?
By CATHIE HOFFSTEDT

When I first thought about the topic, education today, my first impulse was to tear it to shreds. I was ready to bring out every bad point I could think of. When I think of education I think of rules, grades, and a lot of homework. Then I began to think about it more. The more I thought about it, the less I wanted to tear it down.

Education is progressing, slowly but surely. Look at education 20 years ago. Today the system is starting to relate to the students. They realize the students are people with opinions that need to be voiced. We're people who need guidance and attention. Someone will listen when we have something to say! I think the educational system is trying to listen to what the students want and need. Maybe we don't always get what we want, but at least we get the chance to try.

The classes we have today are much better than what used to be offered. Before all a kid could choose from was reading, writing, and arithmetic. Today we can choose from such courses as psychology today and Afro-American history. I consider this an improvement.
 Of course, as in anything, there can always be room for improvement. I feel the educational system is putting too much emphasis on grades. Maybe the best grade a student could get is a D, but he's trying his best. The fact that he tries his best is not written on the report card! The pass system should also be done away with. It really serves no purpose. Also open campus should be given. Sure there are irresponsible kids who would abuse this; but for everyone who abuses, there would be at least 10 kids who would use this privilege properly. If the educational system could let up on the rules a little, it would sure help. People are always saying kids can't handle responsibility; but if they won't give us any, how can anyone really be sure?

Education is a necessity, and there is no way to get out of it. If we keep working together (system and students), we can possibly find a way to make school a place where nobody minds going and everyone benefits.