When it comes to education and parental rights within education, it is important to understand what the purpose of public education is. Unfortunately, we are less focused on helping our children learn to read, write, and learn mathematics and more focused on the social issues of our society. We want the children and youth of our community and nations to hold their own when they enter the work force at the end of their educational journey. The unfortunate truth is that America ranks among the lower tier of developed nations when it comes to educational performance. No one is more aware of this sad reality than Jim Blockey. As a retired teacher, Jim knows exactly how far we have drifted from the original goals of public education. By shifting our priorities, he feels like we could get back on track.
Political Agendas are a Driving Force in American Children Falling Behind
The world we live in is polarizing when it comes to politics. There is no doubt about that. Regretfully, our children have suffered as a result. Gone are the days where mathematics, reading, writing, science and reasoning are the focus of our schools. Now, politics and ideology have taken its place. This has unfortunately, removed parents from the classroom as well.
The Role of Religion in Education Should be Neutral
There are several religious rights that are protected in America’s schools. However, the public school system doesn’t have any right to education children for or against Christian beliefs. The government is meant to stay neutral on the matter. They should stay out of it as this has nothing to do with the goals of educating children in the first place. The religious rights of children in schools are extensive. Here are some of them:
– Right to pray & read the bible
– Right to wear religious clothing or symbols on clothing
– Right to share religious beliefs
– Right to opt out of certain assignments & policies that don’t align with belief systems
– Right to share faith with classmates
– Right to celebrate religious holidays
– Right to be excused for religious reasons
– Right for accommodation in sports and extracurriculars for religious reasons
Rights of Parents in Education
It is vital that parents are a large part of their child’s education. Study after study will show that a child is far more successful in school when they have support from parents at home. In education, Jim believes that parents should have the final say for their children. There is no place for activism or bureaucrats in schools. Parents should understand what their children are being taught in the classroom without any secrecy taking place without their knowledge. When schools are truly neutral like they should be, there should be no hostility toward traditional values and faith. America’s children are our hope for the future. They should be a priority, and that means that parents should be welcomed back in the classroom with open arms.
Jim Blockey for Congress in Nevada’s 1st Congressional District in the U.S House of Representatives
As your congressman, Jim Blockey will fight for the rights of parents and their children. It’s time for a Parent’s Bill of Rights that turns the focus of education on academics and puts the needs of students and families ahead of ideology and politics.