A depressing article in the Oregonian about further reductions in the state’s public school art, music and library programs presents yet another example of the need for a major rehaul of our education system. Everyone knows educators and administrators want to do their best, we need to find a way for them to feel compensated for their efforts while balancing the budget. One of the most ripe areas for a radical design-thinking exercise and yet the numerous stakeholders make it near impossible. With a kid a few years out from entering school I’ve already started looking at our options and comparing notes with friends. Many are going the private school route even if they believe strongly in the idea of public schools. Those who attended public school during a time of competitive music programs, theater, choir, a fully staffed and open library, and numerous art classes don’t want to their children will have a truncated experience. And who can blame them?
Update September 10th: Worldstudio is sponsoring a competition for high schoolers to “redesign their school” in partnership with professional designers. The project ends December 31, 2010 and carries a $10,000 award for the winning team!
