Despite a 30-year-old state mandate, the teaching of African American history in Florida remains inconsistent and inadequate, prompting community initiatives to fill the gap. Many families lack confidence in public schools’ ability to provide comprehensive instruction, citing limitations to well-known figures and infrequent coverage beyond Black History Month. This inadequacy is further exacerbated by recent state laws restricting discussions of race and history in schools, hindering educators and leading to the creation of independent Black history programs. Consequently, community organizations and churches are stepping up to provide the vital historical education lacking in many Florida schools.
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Experiencing a classroom where smartphones serve as essential tools can be incredibly eye-opening, especially when I reflect on a recent incident involving a girl who was unable to join in a lesson due to not having one. In a world where digital connectivity is woven into the very fabric of education, the realization struck me that being without a smartphone is akin to being cut off from participation in critical aspects of both learning and socialization. It’s surreal to think just a few years ago, the absence of a phone was simply a minor inconvenience; today, it often feels like the primary access point to information, resources, and even social standing.… Continue reading
As a legacy at a prestigious university, the recent news of California banning legacy admissions in all colleges and universities certainly piqued my interest. The idea of legacy admissions has always been a contentious issue – a system where individuals have an advantage in the admissions process simply because they are the children of alumni. It creates a cycle of privilege that perpetuates inequality and restricts access to higher education for many deserving students.
The arguments in favor of legacy admissions often revolve around the idea of tradition, loyalty, and the benefits that alumni bring to their alma maters. It is true that alumni parents are more likely to donate to their children’s institutions, which can have a positive impact on the financial health of a college or university.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker