As parents, we entrust our children to schools with the expectation that they will acquire knowledge and skills necessary for their future success. However, recent trends suggest that schools are dedicating increasing time to subjects that do not contribute to academic excellence. Among these is gender studies, which, while a relevant social topic, is being introduced at younger ages, often at the expense of fundamental learning in math, reading, and science.
The Rise of Gender Studies in Schools
Many school systems have incorporated gender identity discussions into health and social studies curricula. While the intent may be to promote inclusivity, parents are right to question whether this focus is appropriate for young learners, especially when basic academic proficiency is declining.
For instance, topics such as gender identity and transitioning are now discussed in classrooms, often without parental knowledge or consent. Critics argue that schools should focus on improving core subjects instead of introducing young children to complex social topics. How much curriculum is dedicated to Gender Studies & Gender Identity?
The Decline of Academic Performance in the U.S.
As schools place greater emphasis on social issues, the academic performance of U.S. students has plummeted. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, students’ reading scores have dropped to their lowest levels in 32 years, with one-third of eighth graders scoring below basic proficiency in reading. Damning nationwide test shows US kids’ reading levels plummeted to lowest level in 32-year history — and Republicans are blaming ‘woke’ education
Math scores are also concerning. While fourth graders have shown minor improvements, eighth-grade performance continues to decline, with significant gaps between high and low-performing students. US children fall further behind in reading, make little improvement in math on national exam
These numbers suggest that our education system is failing students in the most critical areas. Yet, instead of addressing these challenges, many schools continue to expand lessons on gender identity and social ideologies, rather than strengthening literacy and numeracy skills.
Are Schools Prioritizing the Wrong Subjects?
It is crucial to ask why we are teaching children about gender identity before ensuring they are proficient in reading and math.
Many schools argue that gender studies foster inclusivity and understanding, but the reality is that our students are falling behind in academic performance while time and resources are diverted to social and ideological topics. The priority should be getting students back on track in essential skills before adding non-academic subjects.
Furthermore, these discussions can be controversial, with many parents believing that such topics should be addressed at home rather than in the classroom. Parents deserve a say in what their children are being taught, especially when test scores indicate that schools are failing at their primary mission, which is education.
A Call for Academic Focus
The declining performance of U.S. students is a national crisis, yet school curricula continue to expand into areas that do little to improve essential learning outcomes. Parents must demand a return to academic fundamentals before ideological lessons take center stage.
As guardians of our children’s future, we should push for:
1- A renewed focus on math, reading, and science before expanding into non-academic subjects.
2- Greater transparency in school curricula so parents know what is being taught.
3 -Parental choice and input in what social issues are introduced in classrooms.
4- Measuring educational success by real-world skills and not just ideological awareness.
Our children deserve an education that prepares them for the future, not one that leaves them struggling in basic academic subjects while being well-versed in politically charged topics. The priority of schools should be education, not activism.