America's Failing Education System

(article)

The results of a new global exam given to a group of international fifteen-year-olds reiterates a fact which has uncovered America's possible upcoming weaknesses--our students fall far behind those of other countries, particularly in math and science. The article discusses, among other things, the amount of homework given to American students versus those of other countries; Americans outrank countries such as Finland in amount of homework given. Almost ironically, Finland still consistently outranks almost all other countries in test scores. The article also discusses the issues with the way schools are funded as well--many public schools that achieve more are commonly in "affluent suburbs" as opposed to inner city places. This creates an almost classist education system, where the already economically privileged are able to achieve more and the underprivileged aren't given a proper chance to catch up.

This relates to our class due to the beginning of our civil rights chapter; it is a common belief that everyone has the right to a fair, thorough, affordable education. I personally believe that America's education system should be more federally regulated, as it isn't fair that someone in another state or area may be receiving a much more quality education than I am. I believe that education should be totally equal throughout the country, no matter the "affluence" of the area.

Supreme Court to Debate Affordable Care Act and Contraceptives

(link to article)

It was agreed recently that the Supreme Court would review the provisions of the Affordable Care Act which requires businesses of a certain size to cover reproductive health services and contraceptives with no co-pay. Many Christian businesses--most prominently, Hobby Lobby Inc.--have spoken out against these provisions, saying that it would conflict with their personal beliefs. The White House has said, in response, that the requirement is "lawful and essential to women's health."

I personally believe that, as stated in another article on CNN, religious liberty is for people, not corporations. A corporation is not a citizen of the United States; therefore, its religious affiliations are almost a moot point. While religious liberty for all religions is definitely important, a Christian corporation may not necessarily have entirely Christians working for them. I believe that reproductive health is incredibly important and the actions taken against providing reproductive health for women is another facet of the war on women. I also believe that it's another way for those against the Affordable Care Act to try to wriggle their way out of paying for it.