Where the city can really make a dent in education is ensuring libraries are staffed and open, that after school activities that support education exist and are affordable, that our communities are safe and provided for. How about keeping parks open late and staffed by police to create a safe place for people to congregate instead of roaming the streets getting into trouble? LA does it, why can’t Dallas?
I realize creating programs and opportunities doesn’t mean people show up and take advantage, but access to free stuff conditioned upon doing something to improve you as a person or your personal situation is something done all over the world, and I don’t think it’s a bad idea. Brazil conditioning government assistance on things like education is a bit extreme, but when you have private funding creating opportunities for poverty alleviation and educational enrichment, participation can be encouraged and incentivized in ways that public programs can’t. We need investment, we have investment, and we’ve got passionate people. The question is, what’s the best way to put what we have to work. Thoughts? Comment below.