The Whitsdom Press

Category: Education

  • The Launchpad: Helping Your Teenager Chart Their Course After High School

    Graduation – a momentous occasion that marks the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another. But with that excitement often comes a whirlwind of questions for both teenagers and their parents: What’s next?

    The good news is, there’s no single “right” answer. The post-high school landscape offers a variety of paths, each with its own advantages. Let’s explore some of the most common options to help you and your teenager have a productive conversation about their future.

    The Traditional Path: College

    College remains a popular choice, offering a chance to delve deeper into specific interests, develop critical thinking skills, and broaden one’s knowledge base. Four-year universities aren’t the only option, either. Community colleges provide a cost-effective way to earn associate degrees or transfer to four-year programs.

    Gearing Up for a Trade: Vocational Schools

    Vocational schools or trade schools focus on providing hands-on training for specific careers like welding, cosmetology, or automotive repair. These programs often lead to industry certifications and can be a great way to quickly enter the workforce with in-demand skills.

    Serving Your Country: The Military

    The military offers a structured and disciplined environment, valuable job training, and the opportunity to travel and serve a greater cause. Military service can also provide financial assistance for college education after discharge.

    Expanding Horizons: Studying Abroad

    For the adventurous student, studying abroad presents a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a new culture while earning a degree. This path broadens perspectives, fosters independence, and can give a resume a real edge.

    Taking a Gap Year: Broadening Horizons Through Service

    For some teenagers, a gap year can be a valuable opportunity to explore their interests, gain new skills, and give back to the community before diving into college or the workforce. Several programs like AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and City Year offer structured volunteer experiences that can be both personally enriching and socially impactful. These programs can provide a chance to travel, learn new languages, and develop leadership skills.

    Entering the Workforce

    Some teenagers may be eager to jump right into the workforce and start earning a living. This can be a great way to gain valuable real-world experience and build a strong work ethic. Apprenticeships can also be a good option, combining on-the-job training with paid work.

    Becoming Your Own Boss: Starting a Business

    For the entrepreneurial spirit, starting a business can be incredibly rewarding. This path requires research, planning, and a strong work ethic, but the potential for success and personal fulfillment can be immense.

    The Key: Open Communication and Exploration

    The most important thing is to have open and honest conversations with your teenager. Discuss their interests, strengths, and what kind of lifestyle they envision. Encourage them to research different options, take aptitude tests, and talk to professionals in fields that pique their curiosity.

    Remember, the path after high school isn’t always linear. Some teenagers may choose to combine options, like attending community college while working part-time, or serving in the military and then using GI benefits to pursue a degree. The key is to support your teenager in their exploration and help them make informed decisions about their future.

  • The Impact of Affirmative Action Reversal and DEI Closures on Black College Students

    In recent years, higher education institutions have grappled with significant changes in policies related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The Supreme Court’s decision to end affirmative action in college admissions has reverberated across campuses, affecting Black students disproportionately. Additionally, some universities have made abrupt shifts in scholarship programs, leaving Black students in need of financial assistance facing uncertainty. In this article, we explore the implications of these changes and their impact on Black college students.

    Affirmative Action Reversal: A Blow to Diversity

    What Is Affirmative Action?

    Affirmative action, once a critical tool for diversifying higher education, aimed to reduce discrimination in admissions and employment settings. It considered race as one of many factors in evaluating applications. 

    The Supreme Court’s Decision

    Last year, the Supreme Court ended affirmative action in college admissions, eliminating policies that considered applicant race. Historically, affirmative action had led to increased college diversity, benefiting Black and Latino/a students. 

    Disproportionate Impact on Black and Latino/a Students

    Black and Latino/a students have historically faced barriers to higher education. Affirmative action provided a pathway for them to access colleges and universities. Its end threatens to reduce opportunities for these students, exacerbating existing disparities. 

    DEI Closures: Feeling Unwelcome

    The Trend in DEI Programs

    In the aftermath of the affirmative action ruling, colleges are discontinuing their DEI programs. Minority students attending Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) report feeling more unwelcome. 

    University of Texas at Austin’s DEI Division Closure

    The University of Texas at Austin has announced the closure of its Division of Campus and Community Engagement (DCCE), previously known as the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement. More than 40 individuals working in the DCCE are being laid off, along with 20 employees in other divisions. Here’s a clip from my channel with more details.

    Duke University’s Reginaldo Howard Scholarship Program

    Duke University recently ended its Reginaldo Howard Memorial Scholarship Program, which supported top applicants of African descent. Established in 1979, this merit scholarship covered full tuition, room, and board. Named after Reggie Howard, Duke’s first Black student government president, the scholarship aimed to provide opportunities. However, in light of the affirmative action ruling, it will be replaced by the Reginaldo Howard Leadership Program, open to all undergraduates regardless of race. 

    Harvard’s Reversal on Test-Optional Policy

    Harvard University, initially test-optional due to pandemic limitations, has reinstated standardized test requirements for fall 2025 admissions. While test scores are just one factor, they provide valuable predictive information. Harvard’s decision impacts Black and Latino/a applicants, who may face additional barriers in accessing testing resources. 

    The Role of HBCUs: A Resolution

    Black Students Turning to HBCUs

    As traditional pathways become more challenging, Black students are increasingly turning to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). These institutions have a rich legacy of providing quality education and fostering a sense of community. By enrolling in HBCUs, Black students not only find a supportive environment but also contribute to the preservation and growth of these vital institutions.

    Spiking Enrollment Numbers and Funding

    The surge in Black students applying to and enrolling in HBCUs has led to increased enrollment numbers. This influx can positively impact funding for these colleges. Federal and private funding often follows enrollment figures, allowing HBCUs to enhance academic programs, infrastructure, and student services. By choosing HBCUs, Black students actively participate in strengthening these historically significant institutions.

    The intersection of affirmative action reversal and DEI closures poses challenges for Black college students. As universities adapt, it is crucial to prioritize equity, representation, and support to ensure that all students can thrive.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on publicly available sources and should not be considered legal advice.

  • Celebrate National Reading Month with Your Child!

     

    67% of 4th graders read below grade level, setting them up for difficulty in school and beyond. — National Assessment of Educational Progress

    March is here, and with it comes National Reading Month! National Reading Month is more than just a calendar marker. It’s the perfect time to snuggle up with your little one and embark on fantastical journeys, all from the comfort of your living room. But why is reading so important, especially for young children? And why is that daily 30 minutes a magic number?

    Building Little Bookworms: The Power of Daily Reading

    Reading isn’t just about learning letters and sounding out words. It’s about building a foundation for a lifetime of learning and exploration. Here’s how those precious 30 minutes a day can make a world of difference:

    • Brainpower Boost: Reading strengthens neural connections, improving memory, focus, and critical thinking skills. Imagine your child as a tiny detective, piecing together clues from the story!
    • Vocabulary Explosion: Each book introduces a treasure trove of new words. Soon, your child will be using those words in everyday conversations, sounding like a mini-professor (without the stuffiness!).
    • Empathy Avenue: Stories allow children to step into the shoes of others, fostering compassion and understanding. They’ll learn to navigate complex emotions and build strong social skills.
    • Knowledge Highway: From faraway lands to the wonders of science, books open doors to limitless knowledge. Curiosity becomes their compass, guiding them on a lifelong adventure of learning.
    • Bonding Time: Reading together creates a warm, safe space for connection. The snuggles, the silly voices, the shared laughter – these precious moments build lasting memories that strengthen your relationship with your child.

    30 Minutes: A Daily Dose of Magic

    While any amount of reading is beneficial, research suggests that 30 minutes a day provides the most significant impact. It allows for deeper engagement with the story, fostering a love for reading that will last well into adulthood.

    • Sustained Attention: This timeframe allows children to fully immerse themselves in the story. Younger children, especially, have shorter attention spans. 30 minutes provides enough time for them to engage with the characters, plot, and language without feeling overwhelmed.
    • Habit Formation: Daily reading fosters a consistent routine, making it more likely for reading to become a natural habit. The 30-minute duration strikes a balance, offering enough time for meaningful engagement while remaining achievable within a busy schedule.
    • Deeper Comprehension: Reading for longer stretches allows for deeper comprehension and analysis of the text. Children can revisit previous chapters, connect ideas, and grasp complex concepts more effectively.
    • Exposure and Growth: 30 minutes provides sufficient exposure to new vocabulary, sentence structures, and diverse writing styles. This consistent exposure over time contributes significantly to language development and overall literacy growth.

    However, it’s important to remember:

    • Individual Needs: Every child learns at their own pace. Adjust the reading time to suit your child’s attention span and interest. Shorter, more frequent reading sessions can be just as beneficial, especially for younger children.
    • Quality over Quantity: Focus on creating a positive and engaging reading experience. 15 minutes of focused, interactive reading is more beneficial than 30 minutes of struggling or frustration.

    Ultimately, the goal is to foster a love for reading and create a lifelong learner. Adapt the 30-minute recommendation to fit your child’s individual needs and preferences, and most importantly, make reading a joyful journey for both of you.

    Making Reading Fun: Tips for Every Age

    Here are some tips to make those daily reading sessions engaging and enjoyable, no matter your child’s age:

    • For Babies and Toddlers: Choose colorful, interactive books with simple rhymes and textures. Sing along to the words, make funny noises, and let your child explore the book at their own pace.
    • For Preschoolers: Consider stories with lively illustrations and captivating plots. Let them choose the books sometimes, and encourage them to “read” along with you, pointing to pictures and making sounds.
    • For Early Readers: Celebrate their newfound independence by letting them read to you! Take turns reading pages or chapters, offering support and encouragement.
    • For Older Children: Explore a variety of genres – fantasy, adventure, graphic novels – to find what sparks their interest. Discuss the characters, plot twists, and lessons learned.

    Remember: Reading should be a joyful experience. Make it a fun family activity! Visit your local library, have a themed story time with costumes and snacks, or build a cozy reading fort.

    Ready to take the plunge? Here are some additional resources to get you started:

    It’s a call to action, an invitation to unlock the magic of books for children of all ages. So, grab a comfy blanket, pick a captivating story, and get ready to embark on a journey together. You might just be surprised by the wonder you discover! Let’s make this National Reading Month a time to cultivate lifelong readers, one story at a time!

  • Why is there a Teacher Shortage in Special Education?

    Special educators serve a critical role in our nation’s public school, yet 45% of schools reported vacancies in special education roles, and 78% reported difficulty in hiring special education staff.

    Special educators serve just as much of a critical role in serving our nation’s most fragile students, however there is currently a huge shortage in teachers for students with disabilities. Below are reasons why there is a critical shortage in Special Education teachers.

    High Demand. There is a consistently high demand for special education teachers due to the increasing awareness and identification of students with special needs. As more students are diagnosed with disabilities, the need for qualified special education teachers rises. Even in charter schools, while they have small instructional classes for students with Autism,  however it can be one teacher, one teacher assistant, and 5 to 15 in a class.

    Lack of Qualified Teachers. Special education requires specialized training to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities. However, there is often a shortage of educators with the necessary qualifications and expertise in this field.

    High Burnout Rate. Special education teachers often face unique challenges and stressors, including dealing with complex student needs, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and demanding classroom environments. This can lead to a higher burnout rate compared to teachers in general education.

    Insufficient Resources. Special education programs may lack the necessary resources, including funding, support staff, and materials. This can make it difficult for teachers to effectively address the diverse needs of their students. In Texas, districts historically received about $700 million, however due to a federal ruling, the state of Texas will now receive $300 million less in funding per year moving forward. According to ABC-13 News, a federal audit found many Texas schools weren’t using the correct coding when providing services to special education students, which resulted in overpayments.

    Complex Paperwork and Regulations. Special education teachers often have to navigate complex paperwork, regulations, and legal requirements associated with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This administrative burden can discourage some educators from entering or staying in the field. In 2023, Houston Independent School District faced a takeover by the Texas Education Agency with one of the reasons being the district’s special education department and their “well-documented” issues that have lasted over a decade. Since the state takeover and many changes in leadership, the parents of those students with disabilities have reported that their children are struggling to keep up with the fast-paced lessons per the New Education System standards.

    Inadequate Professional Development. Continuous professional development is crucial for special education teachers to stay updated on the latest research and teaching strategies. However, limited access to quality professional development opportunities can contribute to the shortage.

    Competing Opportunities: Some individuals with the necessary qualifications for special education teaching may be drawn to other career opportunities, such as higher-paying positions in general education or related fields.

    Tackling this shortage requires a comprehensive approach that involves improving training programs, increasing resources, providing better support for educators, and raising awareness about the significance of special education. Efforts to address these challenges are essential to ensure that students with special needs receive the quality education and support they deserve.

    This is the time for parents of special needs students, community members, special education educators and liaisons to come together and build for these students; the most vulnerable yet amazing population so we can create amazing leaders prepared for society’s future.