Education is the key

This post is about the absurd arrest of pregnant and parenting teens who were holding a sit-in at their school to protest its closing.  Read about the story on RH Reality Check or watch the story here:

I always heard education was the key that would always open all doors to different opportunities. It is the one thing that you cannot lose, and the one thing that will only keep growing. Indeed, education is important, and should be available to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. This past week I read a story about a group of teen parents devastated by the news that their school would be closing its doors this summer. This is no ordinary school. The Catherine Ferguson Academy is one of a kind as 100% of their student body consists of pregnant or parenting teens. With on-site daycare and pre-natal care, this facility was a leader in the support of teen parents in the Detroit School District – they did not give up on these teens, who for different circumstances became young parents but have the same thing in common: they believe in the power of education and do not want to give up. The news that the school had to close due to budget cuts was shocking, but how the students were treated was even more devastating. It’s as if they were being punished for standing up for what they believe in, for holding on to the one place that shares (and believes) in their goal: to finish high school.

The national dropout rate for teen parents is 70%. Many factors contribute to this alarmingly high statistic, but the main problem is the lack of support systems for these young people who after becoming parents realize that they must get on the right track and continuing school. Supporting young families academically is a long term investment. By taking an active interest in them and brushing off the stigma that teen parents are a burden to society and tax payers, our communities can contribute to the making of self-sufficient families and eventually leaders and role models.
We’re all aware of the budget crisis and the continuing cuts to fundamental programs that assist young families. It is so unfortunate that the people who can make a difference do not believe in the future leaders, the role models, the advocates, the young people that need their support and encouragement to find their inner potential and break that cycle of poverty. However, since I like to view the glass as half full, rather than half empty, I urge all the young parents out there to continue their academic journey. Where there is a will, there’s a way, and while there will be obstacles along the way, do not give up. Pursue your education, cherish it, pass it on to your children as it will be the most valuable gift you can give.