ols to the community. Considering the impact on our society, it mould make more sense to spend money on preparing our children for the future instead of spending a great deal more money in the future on public assistance and prisons to support them.Educational funding is not the only issue, it is however certainly central to the problem. Additional funds could be the beginning of change in the inner city schools. Repairing existing buildings or constructing of new schools, updating lab equipment, technology, and texts, and hiring qualified staff members would help to improve the education these students receive. Improving the learning environment is the first step to rebuilding our inner city schools. More importantly, programs for the students and families will improve their future.Studies have shown many benefits for poor urban students who engage in planned after-school activities. A large number of such programs have been implemented in cities around the country. One study reported that over three million children participated in some type of program in the nineties. One such program is the Brotherhood/SisterSol program serving young Black and Latino men and women, age twelve to twenty-one. In this program members can find a safe place where they can vent their fears, anger, and pain. These children have a space where they and their elders can come together to share knowledge, history and culture.Other programs have also been started to help these underprivileged children stay on the right track. The International Youth Leadership Institute (IYLI) conducts academic, cultural, and leadership development programs that focus on local and international issues. It helps African American and Latino high school students to contribute to their community and the broader society. Head Start is one national program that is helping inner city, or underprivileged children. Head Star is an U.S. federally funded, educational program ...
