~Writings, Musings, Thoughts and Wit~
State Rep. Scott Cepicky frequently asks a compelling question: Why can’t Tennessee be the number one state in the nation for public education? Great question. Why can’t we be number one in education in the nation? So many “education reformers” cling to the industrial age model of education. We need to use our imagination and [...]
Do we need a holiday to be thankful? Probably not. However, this year has been tough for so many people, and circumstances have been tremendously difficult. Even so, we all have much to be thankful for as individuals, as a state, and as a nation. Celebrating Thanksgiving is one manner of telling the world that [...]
Even though educators are key in solving some problems that schools face, they can never be fully responsible for the serious societal problems that exist. Schools need people who will innovate with fewer disruptions.
It was Willie Nelson in “A Song for You” that talks about the price of fame. Keep in mind, I am neither famous or wealthy, but I have always lived my life in the public eye. So, people have watched me grow up and now I am growing old. What have I learned? A lot. [...]
Beverly Flaxington, writing in Psychology Today, reports that “bullying is a fact of life for most school children – over 70% report they have witnessed some sort of bullying event at school. More than 80% of girls have been bullied at school or online, and close to that number for boys.” Bullying occurs everywhere, even [...]
Lack of student discipline, inadequate administrative support, and lack of respect are frequently cited as reasons why teachers leave the teaching profession, often as much as low salary and poor working conditions. Too many policymakers yearn for a time that no longer exists and do not understand the reality of what our teachers face daily. [...]
Here is to the men who helped shape our lives, imperfect as they may be, may we always remember them and be grateful for their influence.
We need to fulfill our destiny as a nation where all citizens can realize the benefits of integration and equality of opportunity
in a dark world, full of lies, hate, and confusion we can all find better days, by looking inside ourselves and being better people.
I tend to avoid the debates among people discussing reading. I think there is some truth in all sides of a debate. I learned to read early and easily. I am also unabashedly an advocate for children with dyslexia, as it has been an issue identified and championed by the members of Professional Educators of Tennessee. I [...]
