Oklahoma Tornados

The state of Oklahoma is known for its significant weather, the most dangerous of which includes tornados. In late May of 2013, the people of central Oklahoma when through a series of devastating storms that caused significant damage. Whole communities were shredded into rubble, and families where left homeless in an instant. Those that were not directly affected by the disaster where touched by the tragedy and stepped up to lend a hand. At this time of great need, the community came together to provide aide to those in distress. The weeks following the storms revealed the best of the community. The storms may have been strong, but the bonds formed in the community after the storms, were stronger.

I greatly admire the dedication of community members, many of which were strangers, to lend a helping hand when they saw the call for action. I am proud to say I grew up in a community where there is a commitment present to ensure the wellbeing of all its residents during times of need. When disasters strikes, all pervious barriers are broken and a common goal arises. People from diverse backgrounds and economic statuses, come together to gather supplies and pick up the rumble. In the months following the May tornados dozens, of memorials and drives were held in the
Oklahoma City Area, these events brought the community closer than ever before.

While my community has many positive aspects, it is not perfect.
The Southside of Oklahoma City suffers from high levels of poverty. This is reflected on the city’s public education system, which has experienced budget cuts in recent years. For many lower income students, a good education means a way out of their current situation and the opportunity to strive for higher education. Due to budget cuts many have begun to question whether the lowered budget will greatly affect the level of education students receive. In many schools the first programs to be cut, are usually the arts. I have seen this situation happen firsthand, as the theater department in my school was cut, leaving many students
heartbroken.

A way to improve student’s education, is to create community support and involvement. By allowing community members to fill the void that was created by budget cuts, students will be able to experience the same level of education as children in other school districts. This proposition allows skilled community members to participate in after school programs that will give student the ability to attend art and theater classes and play team sports not offered at their schools. Programs like this will allow students to expand their horizons and receive a well-rounded education. Having attended a similar program, where a local art gallery hosted a monthly art mentorship program, I understand the benefits that students would reap.