We pay a price when we deprive children of the exposure to the values, principles, and education they need to make them good citizens.

Sandra Day O'Connor’s quote emphasizes the significant cost society incurs when children are deprived of exposure to the values, principles, and education that are crucial for shaping them into responsible, informed citizens. O’Connor suggests that without a proper education in both academic subjects and civic responsibilities, children may grow up without understanding their roles in society or the ethical foundations that guide democratic life. By neglecting this essential aspect of education, we risk fostering a generation that lacks the knowledge and understanding to actively contribute to the common good.

The quote highlights the broader purpose of education beyond just acquiring technical skills or academic knowledge. O’Connor argues that education should also be about instilling moral and ethical principles that are key to creating a fair and just society. In particular, she emphasizes the need for children to learn the importance of civic duty, social responsibility, and the values that underlie democratic institutions, such as equality and justice.

Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court, was deeply committed to issues of justice and democracy throughout her career. Her belief in the importance of civic education was reflected in her initiatives to improve the understanding of the law and democracy among citizens, especially young people. This quote was likely influenced by her experiences on the bench, where she saw firsthand the consequences of an uninformed or disengaged public.

O'Connor’s statement serves as a reminder that education is not just a means of preparing children for careers, but also a way of shaping their understanding of society, democratic values, and their roles as active participants in the political system. The price of depriving children of this education, she warns, is not only detrimental to the individual but also harmful to the health of the nation.