I want to thank Zach for sharing his words of wisdom for this post. He’s a junior at Baylor University studying biochemistry with aspirations to become a physician. And, he’s close friends with my son and practically part of our family. America is at war against its children, … [Read more...] about Hey America, Ratify the Convention on the Rights of the Child Already!
education
Class of 2023 – The Real Deal
It was a mistake to watch the last episode of the final season of Never Have I Ever on the eve of my son’s high school graduation as he prepares to move 3000 miles away across the country in his evolution from Enloe Eagle to Oregon Duck. I am left wondering how my own parents … [Read more...] about Class of 2023 – The Real Deal
It’s a Small World After All
tappity-tap-tap There was an ever so faint knock at the door. With a fussy baby nestled in my arms, I peeked out the window and saw a little blond kid, our neighbor Adam. “Can I bring baby Bird to my school for Show and Tell?” he asked. I literally LOLed. Of course I said … [Read more...] about It’s a Small World After All
Thanks, Teachers
Thirteen years in our wonderful public school system went out in a sputter as my oldest son closed a tab to end his last day of classes his senior year. He remarked how anticlimactic it was, a disappointing end to a difficult year. The class of 2021 demonstrated equal parts grit … [Read more...] about Thanks, Teachers
The Only Testing We Should Be Doing is Covid Testing
Children, their parents, and educators deserve applause for surviving this pandemic year. Thriving is a privilege if you ask me. Hell, nothing about me is thriving right now, and I live a charmed life. These are tough times, and the standard measuring stick to gauge progress just … [Read more...] about The Only Testing We Should Be Doing is Covid Testing
On the Eve of the First Day of School – 2020 Edition
Dear Bird and Deal, I usually write you a letter before the beginning of the school year to tell you what I hope the year ahead holds for you. My feelings are more complex and jumbled this year. Even as a writer, I struggle to put words to my emotions. I can’t quite name what … [Read more...] about On the Eve of the First Day of School – 2020 Edition
Shame.
I have done things I am ashamed of. I have a lot to learn, process, and remedy. I reflect on my own biases and experiences on this Juneteenth. I'm embarrassed that I only learned of Juneteenth in adulthood. Most of the history I learned was whitewashed and inaccurate, or just … [Read more...] about Shame.