Chapter 1: The Need for Educational Reform

Have you ever considered the question: "Would you like to have more money?" People's reactions vary widely. Some readily agree, while others may react with anger or hesitation. How does this question resonate with you?

What is the Role of Education? When people reflect on education, they often overlook its fundamental purpose. Have you ever paused to ponder, "Why do we even need schools?" The answer is straightforward: schools are essential for acquiring the critical skills necessary for future success.

Do you concur with this statement? If so, you might be surprised by the direction this article will take, as I will reveal the significant gaps in our current educational system.

What Do Our Schools Teach? Regrettably, the K-12 education system is not aligned with the needs of the 21st century. And to clarify, I’m not merely referring to the technological capabilities of school facilities. The reality is that all 84,000 schools conform to common core standards, which have become more of a doctrine than a framework for genuine education.

If you’re not well-versed in educational jargon, let me simplify it for you: common core standards focus on three primary skills—reading, writing, and mathematics.

But do you know how many skills are vital for 21st-century learners? Likely not, and that’s perfectly understandable; you aren’t expected to know more than educators in the field. However, here’s the unsettling truth: many educators, including teachers, principals, and superintendents, may not be any more informed than you are.

Isn't that an alarming realization?

Teaching Essential Skills for the 21st Century Our educational framework must evolve to impart the essential skills that students need to thrive. After all, isn’t the primary objective of education to equip students for long-term success? How can we achieve this when we are only instructing them in three basic skills? The answer is simple: it’s impossible.

I bring more than just experience to the table. My two decades of involvement in K-12 education, combined with extensive academic research, provide me with a unique perspective. I have rigorously tested educational theories in real classrooms over the past ten years.

The reality becomes clear: some theories hold water, while others do not.

Stretching Common Core Too Thin

There’s nothing inherently flawed about common core standards; they do highlight reading, writing, and math as essential skills. However, the pressing issue is that 21st-century learners need to master eight essential skills to ensure their long-term success.

Are you beginning to grasp the magnitude of the problem?

The truth is that the current educational system has stretched common core standards too thin. They only cover three essential skills, leaving a void for the additional five vital skills that students require.

Join the 21st Century Education Revolution I am committed to reforming the K-12 system, not by placing blame on educators but by upgrading our schools to meet the demands of modern learners. Presently, our schools are only teaching students three of the eight essential skills needed for future success—a situation that should be alarming.

Unfortunately, many people are unaware of how outdated our educational institutions truly are. Thus, I am on a mission to connect with parents and educators who share the vision of improving the K-12 system.

When students are taught all eight essential skills, they become fully prepared for both college and their future careers. This concept is straightforward.

But here lies the challenge: I can't undertake this mission alone. With 84,000 schools across America, I need 84,000 advocates to join me in this critical cause.

Would you consider joining this movement?

Let’s Advocate for Future Generations As an educator, I feel a profound obligation to prepare our youth for what lies ahead. It is not enough for me to rest on my accomplishments; I must also assist children in pursuing their dreams and achieving success.

But I cannot expect you to possess all the knowledge I have accumulated over the years. It’s unreasonable to ask you to shoulder the entire burden. Here’s what I need from you: If you want to see the K-12 system transformed and wish for children to acquire all eight essential skills, I urge you to voice your support!

Children often lack a platform to express their needs. We must advocate for them; otherwise, they risk being overlooked, which is simply unjust. If you’re ready to help, please consider following this account and sharing this message widely. Awareness is key!

It’s crucial for everyone to understand that 21st-century learners must master eight essential skills while our current education system only provides instruction in three. This gap is significant!

My goal is to bridge this gap. If you’re a parent confronting your local school board or a teacher navigating the system, consider me your ally and resource.

Want to Go Above and Beyond? I recognize that not everyone has the time or energy to engage deeply, and that’s perfectly acceptable. Simply following this account and sharing this article is already a huge step forward.

For those looking to take further action, I invite you to check out my book, "Disrupting Education: The Path to 21st Century Schools."

"Disrupting Education" offers an insider's perspective on K-12 education in America. Released in early 2023, it outlines everything you need to know to help reform your local school or district, including:

• The eight essential skills
• How the K-12 system has diluted common core standards
• Foundational elements of 21st-century skills
• New academic concepts related to modern education
• Six fundamentals of 21st-century leadership
• Strategies for improving your local school

This book is available exclusively on Amazon and is poised to become the definitive guide for those dedicated to 21st-century education reform. If you encounter someone with this book, you can be assured they share your commitment to safeguarding children's futures.

Together, we can provide students with a cutting-edge education that matches the demands of the modern world. I hope you will join me in this vital revolution!

About the Author: The School Doc has received accolades from various educational organizations, including the Joint Legislative Committee on the Public Schools and the NJ School Boards Association. He participated as a key panelist at the Teachers for Good Trouble summit in 2020. To learn more about The School Doc, follow his YouTube channel and subscribe to his free newsletter.