"Those without a voice can be heard."

“One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” ― Malala Yousafzai

                       


                 This month many schools in the United States are welcoming back students from summer break. Children raised in America have access to free public education.from kindergarten to grade 12. Fortunate public school systems provide books, paper, pencils, computers or individual tablets for their students. Increasingly in the States, parents or classroom teachers are purchasing these items  out of their own pockets. Having attended and worked in public schools as well as being the sister of a dedicated public school teacher, I can assure you this is true. Public school teachers and parents care enough to realize the value of giving every child an opportunity for a good education. Many under funded schools must request grants or raise their own money to provide essential classroom materials. As one of the most prosperous nations in the world we are still unable to provide adequate supplies for all of our girls and boys: our future citizens, our future leaders.
      Despite failing federal standards and unrealistic mandatory curriculum's we are still financially head and shoulders above most countries. We provide equal opportunities for both male and female pupils which is not the case in many areas of the world. As a native of Pakistan, author, Nobel Prize laureate and education advocate, Malala Yousafzai has endured the unimaginable to speak out for the rights of women and girls to be educated. At just 18 years of age, Malala continues to risk her life standing up to religious and political extremists who attempt to silence her voice forever. “The extremists are afraid of books and pens, the power of education frightens them. They are afraid of women.” stating perceptively with a wisdom beyond her years. Education is power.  Education gives us the tools for survival. Whether we choose to attend public, private or home school, having access to books, library facilities or the internet develops our sense of empowerment. The most meaningful aspects our of lives come from learning, sharing and expressing our own ideas. Education is a human right.


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