Disco, ESSA and your public school
Don’t judge me for this, but disco has a special place in my heart. And so does music education. A well-rounded public-school education includes arts, PE, and music. More…
I just had to say this
St. Patrick’s Day and today’s immigrants
When the Great Potato Famine drove hundreds of thousands of poor, uneducated Irish Catholics to these shores beginning in 1845, they were not celebrated. They were despised. More…
Betsy DeVos called me. I sent her this letter
Back in February, I sent a letter to Betsy DeVos, saying that our members and I are demanding answers from her about how she plans to ensure educational opportunity for every student. We’re still waiting on those answers. More…
All students are welcome. Make your school a safe zone
The issues we’re facing are far too serious for any of us to be silent. More…
When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, I’ve made many. And I’ve even kept a few.
Here are a few New Year’s Resolutions we should make and stick to—because achieving them is how we ensure that all students, regardless of ZIP code, have the opportunity they deserve for an inspiring, uplifting education that prepares them for the future. More…
Thank you, Delaware! My visit underscored the great work we do
Delaware is sometimes called the “Small Wonder” state, but during my December 15 visit with members of the Delaware State Education Association from the Christina School District and their students, I got caught up in an enormous wave of enthusiasm, creativity and energy. More…
When women retire, yet another gap
Women in their golden years should not have to choose between rent and food. Between food and medication. Between medication and rent. More…
I will stand up, I will speak up for students: Sign the pledge
We are being flooded with reports of hateful words, actions, and images directed at students in our schools. My heart is breaking. There is no place for this anywhere, let alone in our schools. More…
Don’t Mourn, Organize!
Now more than ever, we must double our resolve to bring people together and focus on building a future for all Americans where their dreams outweigh their fears and hope smothers anger and hate. We are stronger together and we will never give up on what we hold dear. More…
We will not demean and stigmatize transgender students
Sometimes we take legal action to defend our students. Like now in North Carolina. More…