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Erica Goldson stood in front of her graduating class at Coxsackie-Athens High School as the valedictorian and prepared to deliver a speech that went in an entirely different direction than most graduation speeches. Rather than rattle off Dr. Seuss quotes and discuss “big dreams” of the future, Goldson deconstructed the logic of the American education system. Erica’s inspiring speech has already made the rounds on education blogs, sparking discussion, debate, and kudos from those working to improve the schooling experience.

Check out some highlights from Erica’s speech:

This is the dilemma I’ve faced within the American education system. We are so focused on a goal, whether it be passing a test, or graduating as first in the class. However, in this way, we do not really learn. We do whatever it takes to achieve our original objective.

School is not all that it can be. Right now, it is a place for most people to determine that their goal is to get out as soon as possible. I am now accomplishing that goal. I am graduating. I should look at this as a positive experience, especially being at the top of my class. However, in retrospect, I cannot say that I am any more intelligent than my peers. I can attest that I am only the best at doing what I am told and working the system.

I have no clue about what I want to do with my life; I have no interests because I saw every subject of study as work, and I excelled at every subject just for the purpose of excelling, not learning. And quite frankly, now I’m scared.

Full text of speech at SwiftKick.

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