Staff Reports
In a time when social justice movements have captured the nation’s attention, one pastor is asking a thought-provoking question: where is the outrage over failing schools in America? Pastor Cory Brooks, renowned as the “rooftop pastor,” devoted nearly a year living atop a building in Chicago to raise awareness for his community. Amidst the struggles of urban violence and systemic issues in education, he now focuses on a pressing concern—why do rallies for justice occur, yet there seems to be a deafening silence regarding educational reform?
Recently, Pastor Brooks shed light on the horrifying situation in Baltimore: 23 public schools reported that not a single student was proficient in math at their grade level. That’s right—2,000 students let down by an education system that seems determined to produce graduates who can barely read or do arithmetic. The pastor’s message is clear: this isn’t just a Baltimore problem; it’s an American problem. Children across the country are slipping through the cracks, and somehow, as a society, we seem to be more concerned about noise regarding racial issues than actually addressing the foundational crisis—education.
Brooks notes a concerning trend: many citizens are eager to point fingers at local and state governments, educators, and even each other. While some blame falls in these areas, Pastor Brooks urges people to turn the mirror on themselves. Accountability must start at home. Parents must realize that the system won’t fix itself and that simply trusting officials to make the right choices isn’t enough. The pastor believes that many families are exhausted from trying to work within a feeling system that offers no rewards, and that leads to a cycle of resignation as children graduate with little to no hope for a prosperous future.
In contrast to the vigor displayed for various causes—like the marches for George Floyd and the rallying cries surrounding racial equality—Pastor Brooks wonders why education reform doesn’t command the same level of passion. Why is it that so many are moved to take to the streets for social justice, yet remain passive about the crumbling educational system that is effectively tying their children’s hands behind their backs? With such grave concerns on the table, one must ask: why isn’t education at the forefront of the national dialogue?
Pastor Brooks emphasizes that education is the transformative power this nation desperately needs. Instead of focusing on temporary resolutions, the pastor stresses the need for parents to actively engage with their children’s education. Relying on the state to fulfill this responsibility is not the answer. The pastor cites the determination of historical figures who, despite facing oppression, sought knowledge and education. He argues that it’s possible for families—regardless of economic situation—to fight for their children’s futures, proving that education is not just a privilege for the wealthy.
As the pastor often concludes, “If you want a better future for your kids, stop relinquishing their future to a failing system.” With educational statistics revealing a grim reality, the need for a shift in focus and responsibility becomes glaringly evident. If parents want to break the cycle of failure, they must take action. Brooks challenges families to step up, advocate for their children’s education, and demand better from the institutions we trust with our young minds. If something doesn’t change soon, he asserts, we are on the brink of ensuring that so many more children become statistics rather than success stories.
So, America, pay attention: the call to action isn’t just about acknowledging struggles; it’s about finding real solutions that uplift our children through education. In this fight for our kids, Pastor Brooks believes we have no time to waste. The future hinges on our willingness to prioritize education and take charge of our children’s destinies. God bless you, and God bless our cherished nation.
