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Thursday, June 10, 2010

Choice in Education: Who should determine “quality?” � The Quick and the Ed

Choice in Education: Who should determine “quality?” � The Quick and the Ed

Choice in Education: Who should determine “quality?”

Life is full of choices. In fact, one semi-mathematical way to define the lives of individuals, organizations, and nations is simply to map out an almost-infinite series of choices that have been made during the course of their existences. By this definition, our identities, our purposes, and our very essences are all determined entirely by the choices we make and the choices others make for us.
The distinguished late 20th century philosopher Albus Dumbledore, from the famed Harry Potter series, is quoted as saying, “It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” If you buy into this insight, it seems logical to conclude that those with more choices are freer to demonstrate who they truly are than those who have less choices. With increased freedom comes more opportunities to openly express ideas and pursue individual happiness; but the possibilities of making mistakes or harming others are also multiplied.
For the most part, the rights to choose, to express, and to seek out happiness have been revered values of the American people over the course of the nation’s history. Yet, regrettably, these rights and privileges have not been granted equally to everyone nor every experience. One such experience where choice has remained