United We Stand, Divided We Fall
by Taylor L. Scheidegger, Olpe Junior-Senior HIgh School

Education: the act or process of imparting or acquiring general knowledge. Getting the knowledge they need to succeed in life can be difficult for some Kansas children. For example, sometimes a family’s limited resources can be a barrier to education.

Dedication: the act of being dedicated. It’s hard for some children to be dedicated to school. They may not enjoy it and they may struggle in school because they have no interest. We need to find ways to help them become dedicated to their learning.

Understanding: to perceive or grasp the meaning of. We need to understand that the future of Kansas is in the hands of our children.

Caring: being responsible for something or someone. It takes a caring community to raise educated children. Our communities need to assure that quality schools are available.

Accountability: an ethical concept which holds people responsible for choices and actions. Lawmakers, school districts, parents and students should be held accountable for education in Kansas.

Teaching: the act or profession of someone who teaches. Teachers are responsible for helping students learn. Every classroom should have a well-trained, highly-qualified teacher.

Independence: freedom from the control or influence of others. Having a good education and going to school can help young children learn how to become physically and financially independent.

Opportunities: a good position, chance and prospect for advancement or success. If a child received a quality education, he or she will have more opportunities. For example, an occupation one wishes to pursue will be easier for the person to get if he or she has a good education.

Nurturing: supporting and encouraging, especially during development. Nurturing a child as he or she develops helps that child want to succeed and do his or her best. Nurturing will encourage a child to get a good education.