Get 'em CPS..

Debate has been raging in Chicago Public Schools (CPS) between parents, teachers and the school organization on length of school days. CPS argues that their school district lags behind nationally in their instructional time and given consistent poor performances by students is adding to the list of reasons why this is a good idea. So what is the debate about?

Parents, teachers and students each have their own set of concerns about this. Parents complain that their kids are too tired, along with students who say that they are 'swamped' and 'tired' already with the amount of work they currently have. Teachers are puzzled on how to accommodate another 40 minutes of lesson planning.

But the issue is a lot bigger than what appears. It is ridiculous for parents or students to complain about the amount of work in any American high school, let alone ones in an under-performing school district. Granted that quality and not quantity of education is what we should be concerned about, but this is an effort to fix something that is broken by the school district and the gesture should be welcomed and supported.

An average high school student has plenty of options to engage in co and extra-curricular activities. Some of these activities are time consuming and tiring, leaving them little to no time for academics. Between athletics, music, drama, speech and other dozens of extra-curricular options available, a student can't be blamed for not wanting to do geometry practice. With both parents working, going home isn't necessarily a much better option - given socially polluting television shows that are often used as soothers. Aren't we better off having these kids be in school another hour every day either engaging in their activities of choice or spending more time on academics?

Whether or not to add the extra time to each day is a senseless debate. How to spend the extra 40 minutes is a legitimate one. Perhaps these schools need to take a look at their after-school offerings and incorporate them in the school day or use this time as extra prep time for college exams, advanced classes, or adding a basic course in Finance 101. I'm not talking about stock market analysis or financial portfolio management. How many 17 year olds know what it means to have a credit card, not pay your bill on time or at all, the consequences of accumulating a debt and paying higher interest rates in turn ruining your credit score? I think the safe assumption would be less than 20%. Why don't we invest in common sense courses so we can strive for smarter civilians?

I hope the city school district wins this one.

Home is where the Heart is...

It's been over six weeks back in the motherland now. After much "soul" searching and passion hunting, I think I have figured out that this is where I want to be.

Looking around and being here is nostalgic. I can reminisce about my childhood memories, my first bike ride, my first best friends, my first crush, it could go on. As I've grown, though, coming back here is also eye opening. It's heart breaking to see so many people in poverty, so many children who may never go to school and receive the gift of education and knowledge, of women who have and will probably remain helpless for the rest of their lives.

But being in such a place and witnessing such times also provides the opportunity to make a difference. To leave a mark somewhere in someone's (or multiple people's, hopefully)life while I can quench my thirst for sharing, writing, contributing to the greater good of society would be incredibly satisfying. I'm not sure how, I just know that this is where I can do the most good with however little I have or want to give. Besides, how can I not sieze an opportunity to be a part of this dynamic craziness. The colorful people from several religions speaking multiple languages yet witnessing the same thing is beautiful. I feel like a part of something so much bigger than myself, yet so integral at the same time.

The route to my ultimate destination will be a scenic one, no doubt. My life back in the States and my new beginning here in India, when juxtaposed, might seem obscenely different, but really are quiet tightly knit with a common factor - my need and want to pursue my true passion and find my ultimate purpose.

Thank you for the warm welcome, New Delhi. Instead of just metaphorically though, I think it would be nice for a little bit warmer weather as well. These new few weeks until my return will be setting the mood for my future plans. Tasting this new yet familiar place is now officially in session and I shall record my progress here. Cheers!