A major issue being discussed today is that of our schools and how they compare with Russia's. Americans are beginning to wonder about our educational system and it's adequacy.

   What can we do to better our schools in order to meet Russia's great advancement in science and engineering? The U.S. realizes that something must be done immediately if we are to regain the lead in science.

   Mr. Kent's third period civic class, under the direction of Mr. Pollard, discussed the following question: What things should be done to better our educational system and raise educational standards to meet those of Russia's?

   They decided upon the following suggestions:

  1. Excellerated classes should be organized for outstanding students who are interested in advancing their knowledge. This should be done in ALL grades.
  2. Students should be encouraged to take major subjects rather than "snap" courses and electives.
  3. Teachers should receive higher pay. The teaching profession deserves more respect.
  4. Students should choose a curriculum according to their ability. Ability should be determined by aptitude achievement and I.Q. tests.
  5. Technical subjects should be required at junior high school level; such as advanced science and math.
  6. Technical subjects should be started in the grade schools.
  7. Positive study habits should be taught in the lower grades and should be put into use constantly.
  8. The same subject matter should be taught in all schools.
  9. Students should be taught to think for themselves and should be able to work alone if necessary.
 10. Discipline should be enforced, not because the students fear the teacher, but because they respect him and the subject he teaches.
 11. We must strive in all ways to interest students in better education and the future survival of our nation.
 12. Observation and experience should be used as a teaching method.

   This problem concerns the students even more than the adults, because the students are the future leaders of the country. Adults can't improve the educational system alone. They need our cooperation. We must act NOW. You can help by doing and learning all you can. Be (Continued on page six)

   "Russia is definitely ahead," say some of our leading scientists. But is this true... in all senses?

   Take the Russian schools ... they are very strict. In some ways this may be good, because it teaches the students the values of discipline. But the bad thing about it is that students are compelled to learn what the state dictates. No boy or girl in Russia has the right to choose the way of life or profession of his desire.

   This curtailing of the freedom of educational choice must also influence the Russian student's ability to think along any lines but those projected by the government. Without freedom of investigation and thought, it is doubtful whether what the Russian student is acquiring can be called "education".

   The fact is, Russia is building a war machine, and the brains of the children of Russia are feeding it. This may be one purpose of education - but, certainly, it can not be considered the only one.

   We must work to meet the challenge Russia has launched into outer space, and at the same time work to preserve and develop the kind of life we can have here in our land of liberty.

Pam Anderson