Category Archives: Education
Talking Menthol on “Tell Me More”
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Yours truly was a guest Wednesday on NPR’s “Tell Me More with Michele Martin.” The topic was my “Menthol Madness” article on The Root, regarding the FDA’s proposed ban on mentholated cigarettes. The proposal has caused a rift among forces … Continue reading
Freeing Minds To Free Hair
I’m a huge fan of natural hair styles like braids and dreads, and I’m especially fond of sisters who rock billowing Afros or kinky twists. I’ve been known to raise my fist in a black power-type salute and say “Free … Continue reading
Chore Battles
What parent hasn’t squared off with a child about completing chores? I know I’ve had my share of battles when it comes to getting my kids to clean their rooms, the bathroom, kitchen, family room or car – you name … Continue reading
Rhee Wrong On What’s Most Important
I’m not a teacher but Vanessa is, and I get a little defensive when her profession is treated like a punching bag by rampaging reformers such as Michelle Rhee (who spent about three years in the classroom before becoming a … Continue reading
Are NFL Positions Segregated?
Have you noticed that NFL linemen tend to be very large, while NBA centers are invariably very tall? And marathon runners are usually slender, while jockeys stand short? The only shock about those observations would be if someone failed to … Continue reading
Well-Intentioned, But Misguided Policy on Women
I didn’t realize the good fortune in being assigned to Carver Hall upon my arrival at Howard University in 1982. It was one of two all-male dormitories (the other was for lowly freshmen; I was a transfer), and I soon … Continue reading
Fear & Ignorance > Courage & Wisdom
The Twin Tower attacks, assorted suicide bombers and global furor/death threats sparked by creative works have pretty sealed the perception of Islam for many Americans. Although the vast majority of Muslims denounce the terrorism and insist that Islam advocates peace … Continue reading
Our Beauty: Defined By Us, Not For Us
As the mother of two girls, it’s difficult to resist a book titled “Five Conversations You Must Have with Your Daughter.” But I haven’t finished Vicki Courtney’s book yet, because it’s something you’re never really done with. I find myself … Continue reading
Tests More Problem Than Solution
Standardized testing is just a scapegoat. There. I said it. I’m an educator and a parent, and I’m sorry to inform you that standardized testing isn’t the magic bullet to solve our problems in education. Even colleges are trying to … Continue reading
Back to School … Bless the Teachers!
A new school year is upon us. New clothes, bookbags and an endless list of supplies. If you’re a parent, you know the scene well. I remember the excitement I always felt as a child on the first day of … Continue reading
