Staff Reports
In recent days, several high schools across the United States have granted students the freedom to walk out of classes to protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While the spirit of student activism is commendable, it has raised eyebrows, especially given how poor the academic performance is in many of these schools. Schools like North Central High in Indiana, where only 14% of students are proficient in math, and Fresno High School in California, which boasts a dismal proficiency rate under 10% in math, seem more focused on fueling activism than on ensuring students acquire essential knowledge and skills.
Critics argue that allowing students to skip important classes to engage in protests sends the wrong message. Instead of preparing these young minds for the challenges of the real world, schools are placing social justice above education. Some education advocates question whether it’s wise to channel students’ passions through protests when they are still struggling to master basic math and English. After all, one might wonder how much proficiency in arithmetic will help a student when they step into a crowd waving banners. Balancing protests and academics is proving tricky, and many believe it’s time for education to take the forefront once again.
Proponents of the protests argue that students are expressing genuine concerns about their friends and peers who may be facing ICE detentions. This could stem from a sense of solidarity with those in their community. However, it’s also important to remember that walkouts without a solid understanding of the issues undermines their effectiveness. The idea that students should be out protesting when they are not proficient in foundational subjects is a recipe for disaster. Instead of becoming informed advocates, they may end up as misinformed participants in political theater.
Moreover, it’s skeptical to think that much of this activism isn’t organized. Some might be quick to argue that students are simply being pawns in larger political games. Recent studies have shown that academic standards are slipping, particularly after the challenges of the pandemic. Students who could have been learning and growing in the classroom might instead be sacrificial pawns in broader social narratives. As one news analyst pointed out, when students sacrifice their education for activism without fully grasping the issues, they may miss out on opportunities that other students are utilizing to build their futures.
Instead of allowing students to walk out and protest, there may be more constructive ways to channel their energy and passion—namely, through classroom discussions and projects that engage them in meaningful dialogues about the issues they care about. It’s crucial for educators to find that balance where students feel heard, but also ensure they are receiving the education they need to succeed. After all, it’s possible to have passion and purpose on social issues without compromising academic integrity. Finding ways to engage students intellectually will not only help them understand their world better but will also prepare them for it, making sure they have the tools they need when they graduate and enter adulthood.
As the nation continues to face complex issues, it’s vital to remember that education matters. Students may want to go out and advocate for their beliefs, which is indeed important, but let’s ensure they have the necessary skills to articulate those beliefs effectively. After all, what good is it to protest if one doesn’t even understand the stakes? Let’s encourage activism, yes, but not at the expense of building a strong educational foundation. Trust us, social justice warriors will need math and reading skills far beyond high school!
