Educational Platform Essay for Stephanie Cottle

Thats Bertie for you. A statement made daily by students and sometimes even staff in
Bertie County Schools. Currently it is a statement with negative overtones that alludes to an
attitude of disrespect and even annoyance. My vision, however, is that one day that same
statement will be a positive declaration of the collective schools and communities that denotes an
attitude of excellence and fortitude. Known as one of the poorest counties in North Carolina, we
as a whole, sometimes succumb to the negative perspective that we just cannot do any better. I
disagree. The students of Bertie County Schools, along with the students in other disadvantaged
surrounding counties, deserve the same education and opportunities afforded to those in more
wealthy and affluent counties.
As a product of Bertie County Schools, I want to be an integral part of the educational
growth and success of our students. I am aware of the reality ahead of us if we cannot overcome
the hurdles before us. Our schools should be inclusive institutions that facilitate learning for all
by inspiring strong work habits, a positive self-image, and an overall appreciation for excellence.
Schools should empower students with skills that enable them to take responsibility for their
lives, and in turn, create citizens that desire to improve their own communities.
In order for all students to receive an adequate education we must get all stakeholders
involved and motivated. Teachers, staff, students, parents, and the community should each feel
they matter. Each stakeholder must strive for excellence by building a network that enables
effective communication in order to facilitate a shared vision. Despite the paradigms we tend to
surrender to, we as a whole must transcend the cultural and socioeconomic boundaries to ensure
our future citizens and leaders are provided with a sufficient education. Teachers should teach
for understanding by encouraging critical thinking and problem solving therefore preparing
students for college and a global economy. Students should play an active role in their own
education, be held accountable for their failures, and praised for their successes. Parents should
be concerned about their childs future and be included in their childs education. The
community should desire to be involved and endeavor to make a difference in their local school
system. All stakeholders should work together with integrity to see their shared vision become a
sustainable reality.
Strong educational leaders must be in place to implement strategies and practices that
foster the necessary collaborative effort to meet these needs. Educational leaders should inspire
students, teachers, parents, and communities to gain a fresh perspective on education and
influence them to set higher standards. These leaders should create environments that are capable
of supporting the learning needs for all students. Teachers, students, and parents should feel
respected by their leaders and that respect should always be reciprocated. Teachers should view
their leaders as innovative and supportive and feel comfortable approaching them for assistance
or to share ideas. Students should view their leaders as authority figures and also as advocates for
their education. Parents should view educational leaders as individuals who are concerned about
the education and well being of their children. This type of progress will require a unified effort
from all entities involved.
We must see an entire cultural shift to where our students are enthusiastic about their own
education and are motivated to go beyond expectations to reach their dreams. Where teachers
are earnest in educating students and parents and communities are diligently involved. This is
when an adequate education becomes the pinnacle of our success.