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Randy Speck

Superintendent , Madison District Public Schools

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Debate: Should public schools take on the responsibility for offering basic needs like food and health care to students and families?

Schools may no longer be just a place for parents to drop their kids off for six and a half hours each day. Due to various socio-economics, schools increasingly find themselves in a new place of influence. The impact of that influence could have a major impact on communities. Schools have access to be able to provide three meals a day through various breakfast, lunch and dinner programs. Schools have access to healthcare through School Based Health Centers to be able to provide services to students, their families and the community. However, the debate is...should schools have this responsibility?

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Topics: children community education happiness health love peace politics schools social change
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  • Saritha Choudhry

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    Oct 27 2012: Schools are a major influence on the students. Teachers are the students' role models. Schools are not only temples of learning but also are a home away from home where teachers only need to teach and look after the kids. Whereas at home, parents will be busy with office work and household chores. Some of them might not have the time to cook food for the children or take them for regular check-ups. So yes, the schools must take on the responsibility of offering basic needs like food and health care.
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      Randy Speck

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      Oct 27 2012: Saritha,

      Thank you for your comments. There was a time when schools were reserved for academic study only, but I believe those days are gone. Schools can be a community catalyst for learning (both students and adults) and for good health.

      Randy

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