Education has a large role on one's growth and development as well as one's perceptions. Education is viewed in terms of functionalism, with all aspects contributing to a specific goal or function. Education is seen as an essential social institution, which is why it can be discussed in the scope of functionalism. Despite all of the positive aspects of education and the education system in the United States specifically, I have experienced and witnessed inequality. A large demographic that faced inequality at my schools, mainly in middle school and high school, was those with mental illnesses or special needs. I saw a lot of mocking, talking down to by staff, and overall inequality for this community. There was evident gatekeeping between groups, with more doors opened for those with less educational or mental struggles. Tracking was also present with varying programs for different skillsets. Some students were in AP classes while others were in classes with additional support. I personally faced slight inequality being a girl, with small things like being treated as less intelligent or strong than the boys in the class or even when it came to things like getting dress coded. Girls were scrutinized for wearing too short of a skirt or a tank top that showed shoulders because it would "be distracting for the boys". This resulted in punishment by the staff. The girls are blamed for the outfit choice as it relates to the perception by boys. This definitely contributed to my perception of myself being shamed for dressing in a certain way.
Question
Education has a large role on one's growth and development as well as one's perceptions. Education is viewed in terms of functionalism, with all aspects contributing to a specific goal or function. Education is seen as an essential social institution, which is why it can be discussed in the scope of functionalism. Despite all of the positive aspects of education and the education system in the United States specifically, I have experienced and witnessed inequality. A large demographic that faced inequality at my schools, mainly in middle school and high school, was those with mental illnesses or special needs. I saw a lot of mocking, talking down to by staff, and overall inequality for this community. There was evident gatekeeping between groups, with more doors opened for those with less educational or mental struggles. Tracking was also present with varying programs for different skillsets. Some students were in AP classes while others were in classes with additional support. I personally faced slight inequality being a girl, with small things like being treated as less intelligent or strong than the boys in the class or even when it came to things like getting dress coded. Girls were scrutinized for wearing too short of a skirt or a tank top that showed shoulders because it would "be distracting for the boys". This resulted in punishment by the staff. The girls are blamed for the outfit choice as it relates to the perception by boys. This definitely contributed to my perception of myself being shamed for dressing in a certain way.
Solution
Your experiences and observations highlight some of the key issues in the education system, particularly in relation to inequality. It's unfortunate that you witnessed such treatment towards students with mental illnesses or special needs. This is a clear example of systemic inequality that needs to be addressed.
The tracking system, while intended to cater to different skill sets, can indeed perpetuate inequality if not implemented properly. It's important for schools to ensure that all students, regardless of their abilities, are given equal opportunities to succeed.
Your personal experience with gender inequality is also concerning. The dress code issue you mentioned is a common criticism in many schools, as it often unfairly targets and blames girls. This not only affects girls' self-perception but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
Education should be a tool for empowerment and growth, not a source of inequality and discrimination. These issues need to be addressed to ensure that all students can benefit from their educational experiences.
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