What I Learned In Haiti About The Value Of Education

Too many take education for granted, grousing about the cost and not appreciating it's worth.  Education is at the core of everything that is important to the future of our children and of our community. For too long the New Bedford Public School System has chugged along, providing only what is needed to meet bare minimum net school spending requirements as set forth by The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.  As a result we have underperforming schools and schools at risk of a state takeover. Education is a badge of honor in Haiti where access to it is limited and for most people too costly to obtain.  In my travels to Haiti I have witnessed the shame associated with not being able to provide or obtain an education. Next to God and  family there is nothing more important to Haitians.  Funny how you appreciate the value of something much more when it is not so readily available. Funding education beyond state minimums has got to be a priority to us all.