Educational Platform Essay for Stephanie Cottle

“That’s 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 child’s future and be included in their child’s 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.