NYT Article by Sara Rimer

I found the NYT article about the Twin Cities International School the most interesting out of all the readings. One comment that struck me in particular was the line about critics arguing that international schools somehow contribute to a “re-segregation of public education” and counter the “melting pot” idea that public schools often try to drive home. But the whole “melting pot” idea is what many of these immigrant and refugee parents want to avoid. I think the “melting pot” idea suggests a stripping away of the differences that makes us unique as we blend together to form a homogenous “American” identity. Many of these parents do want their children to learn about American culture and history, but at the same they don’t want them to forget the culture and history of the country they came from. The thought of their child wanting the latest Nikes and baggy shorts, and forgetting to respect their elders frightens a lot of these parents. International schools offer an environment where students are sheltered from the American materialistic ideals learned from their peers, and are free to uphold their religious and cultural traditions without being teased, not to mention the abundance of teachers who understand their needs. Some may call these International Schools segregationist, but until public schools start addressing the needs of these students and parents, then institutions like the International Community School will continue to exist.