Texas is the second-largest state in the United States, and its significant role in the politics of the entire country is evident. It occupies the second place in the population endowment criterion among other states. Its importance for the agricultural and farming sector cannot be underestimated. In addition, it presents a crucial economic and industrial center. Despite all the aforementioned strong points and advantages of this region, there are considerable issues in the context of education, which should be addressed urgently. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to review the most serious problems in this field, make predictions on the future development on this base, and propose appropriate solutions.
Although the rate of public-school enrollment is one of the highest in the country, there are multiple concerns in the sphere of education in Texas. One of them regards the fact that adolescent pregnancy appears to be a widespread event. The reason for that is the absence of sex education in the school curriculum. Therefore, students lack essential information on pregnancy prevention and safety. It should be taken into consideration that there is a likelihood of significant aggravation of the situation unless an appropriate subject is established. In addition, in the long term, it may result in an increase in children living in orphanages. For this reason, it is evident that sex education should definitely be an integral part of the school program.
Another pressing concern for Texas is a low percentage of the population over the age of 25 with high school diplomas. Moreover, Texas ranks among the last ten states on the criterion of high school graduation rates. Such statistics may lead to negative consequences in the future, such as the lack of competent specialists in the fields, which require considerable mental workload, specific knowledge, and thorough preparation. This concern may also impact political life, as it is crucial to supply decent candidates in order to maintain the democratic regime. The lack of appropriate education may affect the extent of involvement of the population in political issues.
Furthermore, a low number of citizens with finished school education may affect the general cultural context among the population, which may lead to an increase in criminal activity. Consequently, the necessity to stimulate the students to continue their education path is undeniable. A sufficient solution could be the establishment of some privileges for entering colleges and universities and discounts for the education payments for those who have received high grades. This measure would motivate citizens to attend pieces of training of high quality and be determined to create a successful career path.
The low average teacher salary is a concern, which should be taken into account as well. In order to prompt changes in the field of education, it is essential to provide employees with decent working conditions. When they feel that their labor is appreciated, they tend to be more motivated to improve their performance, and salary may present an important issue in this context. Unless this problem is addressed, there will not be those who are willing to teach at all, as this occupation may lose its prestige. Therefore, the government should increase the funding on this aspect, as this measure will allow improving the situation.
In conclusion, there are multiple issues in the sphere of education in Texas. The most pressing ones are the lack of sex education, a low percentage of the population graduating from high schools, and inappropriate average teacher salaries. Sufficient measures in this field should be taken urgently in order not to aggravate the situation and to provide the future generation with a decent level of knowledge.