"In some schools, the principals and teachers tell me that the tests themselves and preparation for the tests control more than a quarter of the year." (113) Preparing for the test takes away from other core course work, presenting that only standardized tests are important. Teachers have begun teaching to the test instead of teaching other valuable lessons. Unfortunately, students in lower income schools struggle from this method of schooling, and "the tests are just the means by which this game is played. It is a game that a lot of kids-predominantly kids of color-simply cannot win."

The inclusion of special needs students in mainstream classrooms presents a delicate debate. However, the following quote nails the appropriate manner in dealing with such a situation: "This isn't even an issue any more. The question is not whether to include children, but how to do it effectively. You need inclusions, not placements, and for that you need more resources, more training and a mandatory code of admissions." Of course for some core subjects at the higher level, inclusion may not be as easily manipulated, yet inclusion in art, music, and gym classes just to name a few, is definitely possible with the cooperation and possible extra training of teachers. Furthermore, the integration of all students will provide a valuable experience to associate with a diverse population setting of those who must reside together in society outside the walls of the classroom.

With the increasing struggle of the United States to emerge as a leading force in the education field, officials might consider taking advice from Finland, as "Students in Finland perform remarkably well, regardless of the school they attend." The ever pressing conflict over equalizing opportunities for students in America is a prime aspect to address the improvement of all schools across the board. While I found all the bullets about Finnish schools equally interesting and important, the following point is most valid: "Becoming a teacher in Finland is highly competitive. Just 10% of Finnish college graduates are accepted into the teacher training program; as a result, teaching is a high-status profession. (Teacher salaries are similar to teacher salaries in the U.S., however.)" Unfortunately, in many cases, teaching isn't considered a high-status profession in America. It is continually looked down upon, and after all, doesn't the role of the teacher play an extremely large part in the success of the student? Perhaps a transformation in the stereotype surrounding the teaching profession would begin to improve teacher's and society's attitudes, thus positively effecting education as a whole.