For years, the results have been the same: when you compare math and reading test scores of our kids to other students around the globe, US kids rank far from the top. But, some American students realize the schooling they're getting just isn't enough.
While others work and play, some students are spending their summers with a book open and a calculator turned on.
Students like Zach Wilson and Margaret Coy spend their summers taking college prep classes. Zach and Margaret are more like students around the world.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, kids in Taiwan are in school ten weeks longer. Students in Canada, Spain, and Scotland are in class two weeks longer than American kids.
Experts say, in education, quantity matters! One problem, she says, is that all summer long kids turn their brains off. One way to counteract that is to take a class. Still experts say kids should have some down time.
Margaret is busy but balanced. She's on the dance team, Spanish club, cross country team, but she also leaves time for other things.
Experts say no matter how into academics a child may be, it's important for parents to encourage them to find learning experiences outside a book as well, whether from volunteer work, artistic pursuits, athletics, or something else.
