Why do we go to school? Some people think the primary goal of education is giving knowledge to students. They feel there is specific information that all kids should know. For instance, they want kids to know what happened in the Revolutionary War and how the food chain works. Others interpret the main role of school as one of preparing students to join the workforce. They are most concerned about students learning particular skills, such as reading, writing, and math.

Some argue that schools should introduce a set of shared values, including liberty and justice. They believe this will help students understand the structure of our democratic government. For example, they feel it is important for students to understand that while each of the three branches of government has a different function, the three work together to make sure we all enjoy certain freedoms and live by the same rules.

Some think schools should teach students to critically analyze what they see, hear, and read. They want students to be able to think carefully about different perspectives, to respect and challenge other viewpoints, and to form their own opinions about issues that affect them. Although many people say that they want kids to be able to think for themselves, students do not always have the freedom to do so in the classroom.

What do you think the function of school is? What do you consider the most important factors in providing a good education?