Current issues | Education

Our education system in the US is failing us - literally and figuratively.  We have a responsibility to provide our youth with the quality education that is the fundamental right of every citizen -- and without it, our kids don't have an opportunity to succeed!

Here's what is plaguing us as a nation - our high school dropout rate is staggering; we are no longer the global leader in college grad rates; our children are ranked very low in math, sciences, and reading.  This is no longer an inner-city problem -- this is a national epidemic.

Beyond the national crisis -- the kids who live in urban areas suffer from lack of resources and access to even begin a quality educational process.  Here are some stats discovered by United Way in 2008:

• Low-income children often start kindergarten one or two years behind in language and other skills important to school success;
• Majority of teachers of young children don't have proficiency in math and science;
• 85% of a child's core brain structure is formed by the age of three, so the most pivotal development years fall between the ages of 0 - 5 years;
• Many at-risk children suffer from poor nutrition, and therefore - it is a hindrance to learning.

The good news is - we have several programs and initiatives out there that are committed to assisting at-risk children and youth with mentorship, support and resources to achieve success.  Please consider making a tax deductible gift today to the Project Still I Rise campaign - for measurable results that impact the Dallas community.  Visit www.psir.org to make your donation now...