Title: Finding a Balance in Education: Immigration, Diversity and Schooling inUrban America, 1880-1900Author: Theodoros G. Zervas7231 W Olive AveChicago Il, 60631T_zervas@yahoo.com(773) 763-3348Project Category: PaperAbstract
When looking at the historical past, questions of diversity and school reform seemto go hand in hand. The presence of diverse communities in American urban schools hashelped foster a change in traditional educational practices and policies. At times, the goalof these communities was to be given their fair share in receiving a fair, equitable anddemocratic education. However, when evaluating America’s historical timeline, issues of diversity in American urban schools emerge when major events impact most aspects of American social life. The period 1880-1900 saw vast numbers of immigrants, mostlyfrom Europe, settling in America’s metropolitan cities. Some of these immigrants hadaspirations of beginning a new life in the United States while others sought to work hard,make a bit of money and return back home with their new found wealth. Those that didsettle brought with them their own customs and traditions, languages and religions aswell as their unique views on education. This essay explores how several immigrantgroups in the United States between the years 1880-1900 reacted to the already presentmodes of schooling in the United States and how American schools responded to theeducational needs and

Some of the most intelligent and ambitious individuals, who are unsatisfied with their own countries, bring their skills to America. It increases the diversity and expands the culture of the country. Immigrants often taken the low-paying jobs (like food service & hotel cleaning) that most Americans don't want to do at such low wages. Decreasing or eliminating legal immigration will inevitably create more incentive to come to the country illegally, which leads to less assimilation and fewer taxpaying, law-abiding citizens. It improves the overall image of America internationally, as it is seen as an open, welcoming country; and immigrants who return home or maintain contact with family back home have a true image of America, not the one propagandized in much of the international media. Adding an additional group of cheap labor adds to the flexibility of business, leading to cheaper prices, better quality products, and higher profits. It gives struggling people all over the world an opportunity for a better life. This country was built on immigrants who sought opportunity, political & religious freedom, etc.

More immigrants means more opportunity for terrorists, drug dealers, and other criminals to enter the country. Immigrants, especially the poorer ones, consume a high amount of government resources (health care, education, welfare, etc.) without paying a corresponding high rate of taxes. The national identity and language is disappearing. The great "melting pot" is being replaced by divisive multiculturism. The emigration to the United States hurts the home country, as much of the male population, workers, and top intellectuals often leave their country. Less-skilled American citizens earn less money and have fewer job opportunities because they must compete with immigrants in the job market. Some of the most intelligent and ambitious individuals, who are unsatisfied with their own countries, bring their skills to America. Few countries offer the limitless opportunities that the United States offers. You can start your own business, learn a high-tech career, become a movie star, publish a best-selling novel, or be elected to office. People in other countries crave the same things we do: recognition, wealth, fame, and the feeling of making a difference. America offers endless ways for a "nobody" to become great. Many countries of the world limit educational opportunities, stifle entrepreneurship, and prevent individuals from reaping