The purpose of school is to educate and prepare students to become productive members of society. In order to prepare students to become productive members of society, schools need to meet not only the academic, but social and emotional needs of all of its students. All of the "core" classes- math, language arts, social studies and science- should be taught. Schools should embed character education and real world applications into this coursework.

Schools should also provide students with the opportunities to experience foreign language, fine arts, drama, technology and music. This will allow students to broaden their horizons and will tap into different talents, not just academic talents.

Physical education and after school sports are also an important part of the education process. This will enable students time for physical activity during the school day and will hopefully encourage healthy living when they are adults.

Schools should make sure they are meeting the individual needs of students. There are many students who are not college bound. These students should have the opportunity to enroll in a vocational program so that they receive training and have an employable skill after graduation. Special education students should have their needs met in the classroom. This could mean that teachers make accommodations in the classroom or that the curriculum is modified. It depends on the needs of that individual student.

Finally, schools should provide students with a safe environment in which they can grow and succeed. Teachers, administrators, staff members and parents need to work together to ensure that students have the opportunities for success.

During my career I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings. I have worked in a residential treatment facility, a public school and a private school. I have taught full time emotional support and learning support in several different models- resource room, inclusion and full time. Throughout these experiences, I have always worked hard to educate the whole child and to meet their needs. I learned very quickly that a student with emotional issues can not focus academically, so making sure that students feel comfortable and know they have a person to talk to is very important. I also found that when students' needs are met, they can succeed. Their success may not always be what others see as "success", but when they show growth, I consider that to be success.