Diversity
I’ve Never Been Quick to Call Someone Racist, But I’ve Had Enough of This ‘Monkey’ Business
Outrage: We’re Not Your Monkey, Nigger, Niggah or Nigga I want to believe that everyone who “accidentally” says, “nigga,” “niggah” or “nigger” because their favorite rapper says it, is sincerely...
Achievement Gap
America to Me' Director Steve James on Having a Real Conversation About Race in Schools
Two summers ago, I wrote an essay called “ The challenges of being a black Principal in today’s racial and political climate.” It was a reflection of my experiences as a leader in Black, White and...
student achievement
What Kids Want Teachers to Know Before the First Day of School
Back to school time makes everyone a little nervous: parents, teachers, staff and especially students. Conventional wisdom tells us that students are primarily worried about their friends’ and...
School Choice
How the New York Times Got It Wrong on School Choice and Segregation
After a much needed break from all things education, I returned to find an op-ed in the New York Times from Antioch University writing professor Erin Aubry Kaplan about school choice. I hate arguing...
Diversity
Future White Teachers: A Guide to Racism and Privilege
Yes, I’m addressing you directly as white teachers. That may feel uncomfortable. You’re going to have to get over that, or this is going to be pretty rough. If you are white, and you are going to be...
Poverty
This STEM Learning Program Shows How We Can Give Every Child a Chance to Succeed
Shayla Toran is a third-grade student who thrives when presented with opportunities to discover how things work. Two years ago, she stepped into D.C.-based Eagle Academy Public Charter School’s...