Purpose of Schools
What Do We Wish To Accomplish?

The purpose of schools – which seems like such a strange, outdated topic, is perhaps one that is in bad need of revisiting.

After all, public schools in America are not in the best shape possible and there is obviously some serious problems with the quality of education in our society.

With the shocking school shootings of recent years, the often dismally low test scores, the impoverished violence-ridden inner-city school districts, and the rising teen depression rates – it's pretty clear some changes must be made.

As congress tries to design policies to improve the situation, and parents and teachers work together – and also butt heads – to get schools back on track, there's a simple question we must begin to ask again:

What is the purpose of schools?

There probably many definitions one can offer to answer the question, but the purpose of schools has changed over the years, and it needs to continue to evolve if our next generation will be able to complete in the global marketplace.

More classes and extracurricular activities are being cut from school budgets, due to lower funding. This is taking placed when the world at large is booming with new technology and information is becoming available at a whirlwind pace.

Developing countries are quickly making great strides because they are taking full advantage of the new opportunities available. All the while, more kids in America are slipping through the cracks and their futures are becoming more dismal by the day.

For example, a high school education used to be enough to get a good job. Nowadays, almost every high school student is pressured to go to college and competition to get into college, as a result, is incredibly competitive – teenagers are suffering from academic stresses as a result.

Sadly, because many are not being properly prepared for college, many fail, and end up becoming disillusioned and stuck in low-paying jobs.

Someone who might be able to help us determine what the purpose of schools should be is Dr. Orison Swett Marden.

As an advocate of higher education and someone who was inspired by the works of many different European writers, he published classic books like “Thoughts On Character” which aimed to encourage people to reevaluate their priorities and pursue the right goals and dreams.

You can listen to more of his books online with the Leadership Series For Successful Living.

Dr. Marden had an insight into the plight of the American youth, like no other before him.

Even though he wrote during the 20th century, his message is probably even more relevant today with the young people in 21st century America.

For instance, several of Dr. Marden's self-help books were actually geared toward young people, not those of his own age. He realized that they were the ones who needed to hear his message the most. The purpose of schools is never in question after reading Marden's teachings.

His teachings create energy and enthusiasm in the hearts and minds of people, young and old, and his messages of hope, joy and optimism provide the fuel to encourage people to never give up on their dreams.

» Depression and Weight Gain - Physical & Mental Health
Depression and weight gain are closely related. Dr. Marden, in his book, Keeping Fit, explains the link between physical and mental health.

» Early Symptoms Of Major Depression - Identify and Treat Quickly
Learn the early symptoms of major depression and identify an important tool that can help to bring joy, optimism and enthusiasm back into your life.

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