Education, the real homeland security – Part III

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In two previous articles, we focused first on the importance of reading to our children, and then we followed up in the second article with a wide array of Internet resources available today to families.

Education is a marvelous tool, but the effectiveness of the hammer is in how well it is used. It may be preferential to use a technologically-advanced power tool like an air hammer, but even an old rusty hammer can still drive the nail. In education we may need to consider simple solutions to address our current complex situation.

Our global generation is facing an extraordinary challenge. Education has been victimized by the recent events as much as any investor’s portfolio. Our commitment to retaining a steady and unwavering course must take precedence. To allow money as an excuse for not advancing education both in our schools and in our homes would be a mistake.

Educators, just like parents, are resourceful. In Arizona schools we have always found ways to make things happen. Just like our families, we will tighten our belts, we will maximize our resources and with the efforts of our dedicated staff members we will prosper even if it’s with a rusty hammer. We will prosper because to succumb would be admitting that we lack the will, and that idea is antithetical to teaching. We will secure our children by affirming our commitment to teach them. Whether in the home or in school, our children must tangibly see that education is not optional. It cannot be ignored because of indifference, it cannot be eliminated due to budgetary constraints, and it cannot be minimized because it is not a priority.

This past summer we purchased a home security system for ‘peace of mind’ while we were traveling back east. This system was designed to protect by sounding an alarm and channeling that message to someone who could help. I would maintain that the alarm has sounded in our schools and homes.

Even though I believe that the home has constantly faced invaders, we are now facing one of the biggest challenges in recent history. Please do not let a job status affect your ability to help your child with a math assignment, or allow a potential foreclosure to disrupt your quality reading time with your preschooler. I am not attempting to be callous to the painful realities of many of our families, but I am imploring parents to rise above the circumstances and model hope.

As a public school employee, I am limited in my ability to request that people pray. As a concerned citizen I am asking each of you to pray for the children of Maricopa. Pray for the legislature. Pray for our President. Pray that the families will have the conviction to secure their homes and make education a fortress for our children’s future. Maricopa Unified School District is here to help. Together we can secure our homes and the future of our children.

Tom Beckett is the Director of Public Relations for Maricopa Unified School District. He holds a BME degree from Grace College and an MFA from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, as well as an Arizona Superintendent’s Certificate, and has served in various educational roles in Pennsylvania, Indiana and Arizona. He can be reached at (520) 568-8100, ext. 1003.

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