by Ernest Smartt

Created on: June 26, 2008

Today's Teens To Carry Tomorrow's Torch?

Too often we discredit a whole generation because of a few. How can our youth be expected to do that which we don't believe they can do? Is it possible that they really can meet the challenges that await them?

We may get a little emotional about this because today's adults will be living in the world that today's youth will be leading. That is a scary thought if we believe our youth don't have what it takes.

Just think about it, in generations past fewer young people finished high school, or went to college. Many of them had to work just to keep the family from sinking into financial ruin. They became the leaders, and guess what, they succeeded in not destroying this nation. They even brought on great progress.

The information being presented here is not based on scientific study, but on observation and some public reporting.

The question goes a little deeper. There are different kinds of challenges that our kids face which will affect our nation. We might ask if our young people are smart enough to meet future challenges. A part of the question might be, will they develop the vocational skills needed to fill the shoes of the current workforce. Can this generation keep up with and make progress in the future of technology? What about the work ethic of the young people in our high schools and colleges today? Will that contribute to how successful they are? Will the moral standards of today's youth make a difference in how well they succeed and secure this nation's future?

Should we be worried? We should take a look at these thoughts individually. Lets think about the EDUCATIONAL LEVEL, VOCATIONAL SKILLS, TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE, WORK ETHIC, and MORAL STANDARDS that our future leaders will bring to the plate.

EDUCATION:

It is clear that our young people are struggling in this area nationally. However, the percentage of students who are doing very well, even exceptional, is encouraging. The potential for great success is absolutely present. The smartest kids never really get seen as they grow up. Usually the concentration is on those who are not doing so well. They are the ones who get the programs, and attention. The fact is, we have some of the smartest kids in the world in our schools today. They can carry the torch as far as educational level goes.

VOCATIONAL / TECHNICAL:

There are more vocational programs in our schools than ever before. Many of our students are getting some of the best vocational training ever offered. Vocational

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