School Survival


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Going to School Makes Me Feel Sick

Have you ever felt like every step you take toward school is a step deeper into despair? Like the mere thought of sitting in those rigid desks for hours on end makes your stomach churn with anxiety? If you have, know that you're not alone. I've been there too, and it's a feeling that cuts deep.

John Taylor Gatto, a renowned educator, once peeled back the façade of the educational system to reveal its true purpose: not to foster creativity or critical thinking, but to mold obedient workers for the industrial machine. It's a sobering realization that leaves a bitter taste in your mouth, knowing that the system meant to educate you is designed to stifle your individuality and curiosity.

Peter Gray, another voice in the wilderness, speaks of the crucial role of play in learning. He advocates for self-directed education, recognizing that true understanding and growth come not from rote memorization but from exploration and discovery. Yet, in our classrooms, play is often dismissed as frivolous, replaced by the relentless grind of standardized tests and rigid curriculum.

So, why does going to school make me feel sick? Because it's a place where my creativity is stifled, my individuality is suppressed, and my natural curiosity is suffocated under the weight of conformity.

Laurie A. Couture sheds light on what parents should be doing to counteract this oppressive system. She emphasizes the importance of fostering an environment of trust and support, where children are encouraged to pursue their passions and interests, rather than being coerced into the mold of societal expectations.

But what if traditional school just isn't for you? What if you crave a different path, one that honors your unique journey and allows you to thrive on your own terms? Fear not, because there are alternatives. From self-directed education to online schooling, there are myriad options available for those brave enough to forge their own path.

To anyone reading this who feels trapped in the suffocating grip of the educational system, know that your feelings are valid. You are not alone in your struggle, and there is nothing wrong with you. You are a unique individual with boundless potential, and you deserve to be seen, heard, and valued for who you truly are. So, take heart, dear reader, and know that there is hope on the horizon, even in the darkest of days.

Where to next? Pick one!

Posted in: Blog, Commentary, Questions on February 26, 2024 @ 5:26 PM

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