Geo, New Father, Diagnostic Imaging Supervisor, FL

“Schools should connect lessons to the real-world, to form a connection to what happens after high school. Not what is going to help you pass this state-wide test, but on skill sets that you’re going to take outside to the world.”

Geo is a supervisor for Diagnostic Imaging in Tampa, Florida. He welcomed his daughter, Bella, into the world last August. He was interviewed by his friend, Nicole.

Imagine your child (or one you care about deeply) is now in their 30s – out of school and starting into adult life.  What do you hope for them about their life?  What would make it a ‘good’ life?

I don’t want her to be living paycheck to paycheck. She should have stability and know her income scale. I’m not worried about her being rich, I just don’t want her to go through the stress that comes with living like that. Success to me looks like she has a family, she’s able to be active in the community. Having enough to be able to give some back, whether that’s through time or financially.

What is the role of schools in achieving that good life?

I think the role of school is just about as important as the role of a parent. What essentially happens in that your child has to go to school. So, for 8 hours a day or even more if there’s after-school programs, they are at school. School is going to introduce them to new concepts that you won’t have to opportunity to do if you’re a working parent. Whether its social skills or learning, both of those things get introduced in school. Schools should connect lessons to the real-world, to form a connection to what happens after high school. Not what is going to help you pass this state-wide test, but on skill sets that you’re going to take outside to the world.  

“Schools should connect lessons to the real-world, to form a connection to what happens after high school. Not what is going to help you pass this state-wide test, but on skill sets that you’re going to take outside to the world. ​”