Two million minutes, that’s approximately how much time students have from eighth grade to high school graduation to acquire the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in college and the workforce. That’s also the title of a new, must-see documentary. The creators of Two Million Minutes, Robert A. Compton and Chad Heeter, are former Teach for America educators. Compared to their international peers, American students don’t fare well academically, especially in math and science. “Less than 40 percent of U.S. students take a science course more rigorous than general biology, and a mere 18 percent take advanced classes in physics, chemistry or biology. Only 45 percent of U.S. students take math coursework beyond two years of algebra and one year of geometry. And 50 percent of all college freshmen require remedial coursework,” according to Compton and Heeter. Students in India and China, for example, have a much more rigorous education. “India and China have made dramatic leaps in educating their middle classes – each comparable in size to the entire U.S. population. Compared to the U.S., China now produces eight times more scientists and engineers, while India puts out up to three times as many as the U.S.” Compton and Heeter note, adding. “Just as the Soviets’ launch of a tiny satellite ignited a space race and impelled America to improve its science education, many experts feel the United States has reached its next ‘Sputnik moment’… Are we doing enough with the time we have to ensure the best future for all?” Watch Two Million Minutes, and decide for yourself.
