Reading Response

The article "The American High School Has Failed It's Missions" by David F. Labaree discusses what issues today's high school may be having and why they could possibly failing teaching their curriculum correctly. Many think that the modern American high school is being falsely portrayed in media, such as movies. The author explains how in specific movies from the nineties shows how school is a boring place and students try everything to rebell against the rules, like skipping school for the day.

Not only is the schooling portrayed in a negative light, it also shows that everyone will graduate. This gives schools in today's society the idea that they will expect everyone to graduate and if you do not then you are a high school drop out. Schools are being put under much stress to push for all their students to graduate. With this in mind, school administrators and teachers will do anything to get their students not to fail. One technique used was easy grading allowing students to be able to receive a diploma without trying hard at all but basically just attending school.

The author also digs into the fact that out schooling is soley based on helping students prepare for the workforce. There are different types of schooling that will teach you how to do a certain job. For example, vocational studies usually prepares one for auto mechanic work or to become a beautician while academic work prepares you for admission to colleges and eventually receiving a job at a major company.

The purpose of schooling and the view of how school is being presented to the public is different for everyone. Some use the media to base their opinions on school and others use their experience. Whichever way they choose, school is provided for everyone to be able to learn the steps for their career in the future.