Nearly every day we hear what's wrong with kids. Social scientists document rising rates of teen pregnancy and juvenile crime. Educators decry declining test scores and educational standards.
Newspapers describe the latest rampage in the continuing saga of kids killing kids.
William Bennett's Index of Leading Cultural Indicators provides a statistical and objective standard which documents the decline of America's family and its impact on the nation's youth. Unfortunately, this relentless discussion of problems facing children in our society obscures their positive influence and acts of service. Talk of declining test scores ignores the outstanding performance each year of the best and brightest students on those same tests. Academic excellence still reigns supreme on college entrance exams as each year high schools graduate valedictorians and National Merit Scholars who pursue their academic dreams at prestigious universities. Eager students participate in academic bowls, spelling bees, chess tournaments, and advanced honors programs.