Precious Perspective #7: In a World Where You Can Be Anything, Be Honest

The Precious Perspective is a six-week “food-for-thought” blog written from both my professional expertise and my parental experience. I wrestled with this edition at first, worried it sounded too negative. But after revisiting and refining, I realized what it really reflects is honesty, and transparency is what brings true value to these conversations.

Providing Perspective

I’ve successfully raised children through the public school system, though I personally experienced private schooling. Professionally, I’ve worked in education for decades: as a teacher, an educational leader for over ten years, and now as a certified Chief Business Official. As a new mom preparing for my toddler’s future transition into education, I’ve gotten the opportunity to hear from other moms.  One perspective vividly communicated in the words of a local mom with a background parallel to my background was these words: “My husband and I are no longer confident that we trust the public education system.”  A point of view that touched my heart and caused me to reflect and consider my willingness to ease into educational decisions for my toddler entering K-12 public education.

The Honest Truth

Are our education systems failing our children? Parents send their children to school in September, only to see them return by June as different students, sometimes better, but too often diminished in confidence, safety, or readiness.

This is frightening. Education is supposed to be a trusted value, something instilled in us as children. Instead, families are being forced to second-guess whether schools are prioritizing learning, safety, and growth.

Here are some truths we need to face:

• Districts must prove themselves. Parents shouldn’t feel guilty for asking questions or expecting accountability.

• Safety is non-negotiable. Schools must protect students from physical and emotional harm.

• Educators must be accountable. Teachers should teach effectively and intervene when instruction isn’t working.

• Counselors must go beyond transcripts. They should ensure students have access to resources that support the whole child.

There are shining examples, many of which are alternative schools that are doing this work. But let’s be clear: it doesn’t matter how new the building is, how polished the field looks, or how exclusive the program sounds. What matters is whether schools are equipped to ensure every student succeeds, including students with disabilities and students from historically underserved groups.

A Fiscal Reality Check

As Fall approaches, districts are preparing for Fall 1, when data is reported to the state dashboard. This determines funding allocations. Translation? Enrollment equals money. No students, no funding.

Parents, before buying a home or settling into a community, do your homework. Explore the strengths and weaknesses of your local schools. Look past the brochures, slogans, and shiny surfaces, dig into the outcomes.

Why Families Distrust

In my advocacy work, I see a growing pattern: families simply do not trust school officials to prioritize their children’s best interests. That distrust doesn’t appear out of nowhere; it’s rooted in real experiences, broken promises, and systems that put compliance over care.

When the school year begins, educators are overwhelmed. Enrollment, scheduling, compliance with state reporting, and day-to-day demands compete with the priority of student success. But from a parent’s perspective, those system-level tasks don’t excuse when children’s needs go unmet.

Looking Ahead

Many parents are exploring alternatives like homeschooling. Their reason? They want assurance that academics, not distractions, are the priority.

As a new mother again, I deeply understand this. Sending your child to school should mean they return home wiser, more mature, and proud of themselves. Unfortunately, for too many, that’s not the case. Instead, children return ill-prepared, or worse, harmed by systems that were supposed to support them.

This isn’t about fear, it’s about empowerment. Parents, protect your child’s education with love, vigilance, and honesty. Explore your options. Here in Long Beach and the surrounding areas, families have a range of choices, including small schools, private schools, charters, and comprehensive campuses.

But beware, glossy, shiny new buildings can be hollow inside. New schools draw crowds simply because of their appearance. Remember: it’s not the paint on the walls, it’s the rigor of the programs, the professionalism of the people who instruct, and the values that these teams prioritize that matter.

The Precious Perspective will continue to highlight these truths, offering insight, challenge, and encouragement for parents and professionals alike. Honesty is necessary.

Marvel in Motherhood!

Sincerely,

Precious Young

@erinshugsfoundation