Category: Education Chronicles

When faced with the daunting task of writing an essay, one of the biggest hurdles can be deciding on a topic. Whether it’s for a class assignment or a personal project, choosing the right essay topic is crucial for a successful and engaging piece. However, with so many possible options, it can be overwhelming trying to come up with a unique and interesting idea. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of strategies and resources to help you find inspiration and brainstorm essay topics that will capture your readers’ attention. From writing prompts to essay suggestions, we’ve got you covered in this article. So let’s dive in and explore different ways to craft an impressive and meaningful essay topic.

Essay Writing: Finding Inspiration and Crafting the Perfect Topic

Writing an essay can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing a topic. The right topic can make or break your essay, so it’s important to spend some time brainstorming and exploring different ideas before settling on one. In this article, we will discuss 10 tips and suggestions for finding inspiration and crafting the perfect essay topic.

1. Essay Topic Ideas

One of the best places to start when looking for essay topics is your own interests and experiences. Think about your hobbies, passions, and unique experiences – these can all serve as potential essay topics. For example, if you’re an avid traveller, you could write about your favorite travel destinations or how traveling has shaped your perspective on life.

Additionally, current events and societal issues are excellent sources of essay topics. Stay up-to-date with the news and think about how these events relate to your interests or experiences. This can lead to thought-provoking essays that are relevant and engaging.

Lastly, consider browsing through online databases and websites that offer essay prompts. These often cover a wide range of topics and can spark new ideas that you may not have considered before.

2. Writing Prompts for Essays

A writing prompt is a brief statement or question that serves as an inspiration for writing. They are great tools for generating essay topics, as they provide a starting point for your thoughts and ideas. Some popular writing prompt websites include Writer’s Digest and The New York Times’ “What’s Going On in This Picture?” series.

When using writing prompts, don’t feel limited by the initial question or statement. Let your imagination run wild and see where your thoughts take you. You never know – a seemingly simple writing prompt can lead to a unique and compelling essay topic.

3. Essay Inspiration

Inspiration can come from anywhere – a book, a movie, a conversation with a friend. Pay attention to your surroundings and allow yourself to be inspired by the world around you. Inspiration can also come from within, so trust your own ideas and thoughts as potential essay topics.

If you’re feeling stuck, try taking a break from thinking about your essay topic. Sometimes inspiration strikes when you least expect it, and stepping away from the brainstorming process can give your mind a chance to relax and think creatively.

4. Brainstorming Essay Topics

When brainstorming essay topics, don’t be afraid to jot down any and all ideas that come to mind. The goal is to generate a large list of potential topics and then narrow it down later. Be open-minded and don’t limit yourself – even if an idea seems silly or far-fetched, write it down. It may lead to a more unique and interesting essay topic than you initially thought.

Also, consider asking for input from friends or family members. They may have different perspectives and ideas that can help you come up with an engaging essay topic.

5. Choosing an Essay Topic

Once you have a list of potential essay topics, it’s time to start narrowing it down. Consider the following factors when choosing the perfect topic:

• Relevance: Is the topic related to the assignment or course material?
• Interest: Are you genuinely interested in the topic? If you’re not passionate about it, it will be difficult to write a compelling essay.
• Uniqueness: Choose a topic that is not overdone or too broad. This will help your essay stand out and make it easier to write.
• Research: Is there enough information available about the topic for you to write a solid essay?

Take your time and carefully consider each potential topic before making a decision. It’s important to choose a topic that you feel confident in and one that will be enjoyable to write about.

6. Essay Writing Suggestions

Once you have chosen your topic, it’s time to start writing. Here are some general suggestions for crafting a successful essay:

• Start with an attention-grabbing introduction that sets the tone for your essay.
• Use clear, concise language and avoid overly complicated sentence structures.
• Organize your thoughts and ideas in a logical manner, using paragraphs to break up different points.
• Use credible sources to support your arguments.
• Proofread and edit your essay for spelling and grammar errors.
• End with a strong conclusion that ties everything together and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Remember to also follow any specific guidelines and requirements for your essay, such as a required word count or citation style.

7. Essay Prompts and Ideas

If you’re still struggling to come up with a topic, here are some specific essay prompts and ideas to help get your creative juices flowing:

• Write an essay exploring the impact of social media on society.
• Discuss the pros and cons of technology in education.
• Analyze the effects of climate change on our planet.
• Write a personal essay about a significant event that has shaped your life.
• Explore the concept of privilege and its impact on society.
• Discuss the role of art and culture in shaping our identities.

8. Finding Essay Topics

If you’re still struggling to come up with a topic, don’t worry – there are many resources available to help you find inspiration. Consider looking at essay writing websites or browsing through TED Talks for interesting and thought-provoking topics. You can also consult with your peers or instructor for suggestions and guidance.

9. Crafting an Essay Topic

So, how do you craft the perfect essay topic? Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid generic or overused topics. Instead, focus on something unique and interesting to you.
• Make sure your topic is specific and not too broad. This will help you stay focused and make your essay more manageable.
• Ensure your topic is relevant to the assignment or course material.
• Choose a topic that you feel passionate about and will enjoy writing about.
• Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and be creative with your topic selection.

10. Essay Brainstorming Tips

Finally, here are some additional tips to help with the brainstorming process:

• Write down all ideas, no matter how silly they may seem.
• Don’t limit yourself – explore different angles and perspectives on your topic.
• Take breaks and allow yourself time to let your thoughts flow naturally.
• Ask for input and ideas from others.

Remember, the key to finding a great essay topic is to be open-minded, creative, and willing to put in the time and effort to brainstorm ideas. With these tips and suggestions, you’ll be on your way to crafting a unique and engaging essay in no time.

What to Write About Essay

If you’re still struggling to find inspiration, check out this article on Fashion Capital that offers tips and ideas on how students can get designer clothes for cheap. While this may seem like a seemingly unrelated topic to essay writing, it can serve as a starting point for exploring topics such as consumerism, fast fashion, and the impact of social media on our perceptions of style and beauty. Remember, inspiration can come from anywhere – you just have to keep an open mind and be willing to explore different ideas.

In conclusion, choosing an essay topic can be a daunting task but with the right strategies and techniques, it can become a fun and creative process. This article has provided several ideas and tips for finding inspiration, brainstorming, and selecting a suitable essay topic. By considering your interests, current events, and personal experiences, you can come up with unique and engaging topics that will captivate your readers. Don’t be afraid to explore different writing prompts and ideas, as well as involving others in the brainstorming process. Remember, a great essay starts with a well-crafted topic, so take your time and choose a subject that you are passionate about. With these tips in mind, you are now ready to embark on your essay writing journey with confidence and creativity. Happy writing!

When it comes to writing an essay on a book, there are a few things you need to know. First, you need to read the book carefully, taking notes along the way. Next, you need to come up with a thesis statement, or a main idea, for your essay. Then, you need to outline your essay, making sure to include your thesis statement and support your argument with evidence from the book. Finally, you need to write your essay, making sure to stay on track and properly cite your sources.

Understanding the Purpose of Writing an Essay on a Book

Writing an essay on a book can be a difficult task. It is important to understand the purpose of writing such an essay in order to be successful. The main purpose of writing an essay on a book is to analyze the book and to present your opinion on it. In order to do this, you must first read and understand the book.

The best way to understand a book is to take notes while reading it. Make sure to write down the main points of the book and any questions you have. Once you have finished reading the book, you should go back and answer any of your questions.

After you have read and understood the book, it is time to start writing your essay. The first step is to introduce the book and give a brief summary of it. Next, you should discuss your opinion of the book. What did you like or dislike about it? Be sure to support your opinion with evidence from the book.

Finally, you should conclude your essay by discussing what you learned from reading the book. What did it teach you about life, love, etc.? Be sure to explain how the book has changed your opinion on these topics.

By following these steps, you can write a successful essay on a book.

Reading and Analyzing the Book

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When it comes to writing an essay on a book, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to read the book thoroughly and carefully. Next, you need to analyze the book and develop a thesis statement. Finally, you need to write a well-organized and well-written essay.

When reading a book, it is important to pay attention to the plot, the characters, and the setting. You should also take note of the author’s use of language and the themes of the book. Once you have a good understanding of the book, you can begin to develop a thesis statement.

Your thesis statement should be a clear and concise statement of your argument. It should be based on your analysis of the book, and it should be something that you can defend with evidence from the book.

Once you have a thesis statement, you need to organize your essay. Your essay should have an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should be focused on one specific point that supports your thesis.

In order to write a good essay, you need to be well-organized and you need to be able to write clearly and effectively. You should also be sure to cite your sources correctly.

If you follow these guidelines, you can write a successful essay on any book.

Developing a Strong Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the backbone of any essay. It is the main point that you are trying to make in your paper, and it should be clear and concise. In order to develop a strong thesis statement, you need to be able to answer the question, "What is your paper about?"

Your thesis statement should be specific and focused, and it should be able to stand on its own. It should not be a restatement of your topic, and it should not be too broad. In order to narrow your focus, you may want to ask yourself a series of questions about your topic. For example, if you are writing about a book, you may want to ask yourself the following questions:

What is the main point of the book?
What are the themes of the book?
What are the characters like?
What is the setting of the book?
What is the plot of the book?

Once you have a good understanding of the book, you can begin to develop a thesis statement. Your thesis statement should reflect your understanding of the book, and it should be controversial enough to generate discussion. For example, you may want to argue that the main point of the book is to show the consequences of war. Or, you may want to argue that the themes of the book are redemption and forgiveness.

Your thesis statement should be at the beginning of your paper, and it should be backed up by evidence from the book. You should also be sure to explain how your thesis statement relates to the topic of your paper.

Structuring Your Essay on the Book

When you are writing an essay on a book, you will typically be asked to analyze the work in some way. This may involve discussing the themes of the book, the characters, or the author’s style. However, before you can do any of this, you need to carefully structure your essay.

The first step is to come up with a thesis statement. This is a single sentence that sums up your main argument about the book. Once you have your thesis statement, you can then begin to develop your essay.

Each paragraph in your essay should be devoted to a single point that supports your thesis. Make sure to backing up your points with evidence from the book. In addition, be sure to organize your paragraphs in a logical order.

The conclusion of your essay should recap your main points and argue for why they are important. It should also show how the book you have been discussing relates to the world around us.

Supporting Your Arguments with Evidence from the Book

When writing an essay on a book, it is important to support your arguments with evidence from the text. This evidence can come in the form of direct quotations, paraphrased statements, or summarized ideas. In order to ensure that your essay is well-organized and easy to follow, it is helpful to create an outline before you begin writing.

Your essay should begin with a concise introduction that introduces your topic and provides a brief overview of your argument. In the body of your essay, you should provide evidence from the text to support your points. Be sure to cite your sources using MLA format.

Your conclusion should summarize your main points and provide a brief reflection on the book. In addition, you may want to suggest further reading on the subject.

Essays on books can be a great way to learn more about a topic, and they can also be a lot of fun to write. By taking your time and planning your essay carefully, you can create a well-written and insightful paper that will be sure to impress your teacher.

Analyzing the Themes and Literary Elements of the Book

When it comes to writing an essay on a book, it is important to first understand the themes and literary elements of the book. In order to do this, you must first read the book thoroughly. Once you have a good understanding of the book, you can begin to analyze the themes and literary elements.

When analyzing the themes of a book, you should ask yourself the following questions:

What is the main theme of the book?
What are the supporting themes?
How are the themes developed?
What is the author’s purpose for including the themes?

When analyzing the literary elements of a book, you should ask yourself the following questions:

What are the literary devices used in the book?
How are the literary devices used to develop the themes?
What is the purpose of the literary devices?

Once you have analyzed the themes and literary elements of the book, you can then begin to write your essay. Your essay should discuss the themes and how they are developed, as well as the literary devices used and their purpose. You should also include your own thoughts and analysis on the book.

Providing a Critical Evaluation of the Book

There are a few things that you will need to know in order to write a good critical evaluation of a book. First, you need to have read the book. Secondly, you need to have a strong understanding of the elements of fiction and non-fiction. Finally, you need to be able to write clearly and concisely.

When writing an essay on a book, you will need to provide a brief summary of the book, followed by a critical evaluation. The critical evaluation should include your thoughts on the plot, the characters, the writing style, and the overall quality of the book.

You should also include a conclusion in which you state whether or not you recommend the book. Be sure to back up your opinion with evidence from the book.

Crafting a Cohesive Conclusion

The conclusion of an essay is where you tie everything together and show the reader how everything fits together. In order to do this, you need to revisit the thesis statement and remind the reader of what you were trying to argue. You can also recap the main points of your essay and show how they support your thesis.

In addition, you should also restate your thesis in a different way and show how it has been changed by the information that you presented in your essay. This will help to ensure that the reader understands and remembers your thesis.

Finally, you should provide a brief summary of the main points that you made in your essay. This will help the reader to remember the most important points that you made and will leave them with a strong understanding of your argument.

Rausch: Leadership, Commitment, Judgment — 3 Keys for All Authorizers of Public Charters in Creating More Great Schools

As human beings, we have an inherent inclination towards rules and norms in order to bring structure to our increasingly intricate world. These rules and norms are employed on a daily basis to enhance efficiency, consistency, and safety.

It is unsurprising, therefore, that rules and norms played a crucial role during the early stages of charter school authorizing. During that time, the focus was rightly placed on abiding by the regulations outlined in state charter laws and ensuring that schools did the same.

However, charter school authorizing has evolved. We now possess significantly more information than we did 15 years ago, thanks to the substantial growth of both authorizers and schools in the sector. We now have a much deeper understanding of how authorizing affects schools. Most importantly, we recognize that one cannot be a proficient authorizer if the schools they authorize are not of good quality.

That’s why the National Association of Charter School Authorizers is exploring how the practice of authorizing must continue to advance. A crucial point that has become abundantly clear to the field is that effective charter school authorizing goes beyond simply adhering to the law; it involves making choices that generate more exceptional charter schools to meet the needs of the community. This necessitates the qualities elucidated in our recent report, "Leadership, Commitment, Judgment: Elements of Successful Charter School Authorizing."

These three elements may seem self-evident to many individuals working in public education. How could one possibly create more high-quality schools without, for instance, an institutional commitment to the task?

When there is institutional commitment, the work of authorizing becomes visible, integrated into the larger organization’s strategic plan and objectives, and adequately supported. The individuals responsible for day-to-day authorizing duties such as reviewing applications, analyzing budgets, and assessing performance data have a say in decision-making.

Yet, for something that appears so obvious, there are far too many instances where this commitment is lacking, and it is negatively affecting the work. For numerous authorizing institutions, authorizing is primarily an afterthought. Many professionals involved in authorizing are tucked away in a district office or university, where they are burdened by bureaucracy, or their institutional leaders are at best apathetic and at worst hostile.

Our research unequivocally demonstrates that this approach will not lead to excellent schools for children.

Merely ticking off checkboxes will not lead to exceptional schools either. Making decisions based on how students can be best served requires a high level of professional judgment, which entails a combination of big-picture thinking and data analysis. It is not a matter of following a pre-determined formula. Recognizing this, the best authorizers have assembled teams with a high level of expertise, earned the respect of schools, and fostered teamwork that complements the organization’s intelligent tools and assessment criteria. For instance, the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education has established a strong portfolio of authorized schools by prioritizing staff longevity, internal promotions, and direct experience in charter schools.

A third evident element of success is leadership in creating excellent options for children. Strong authorizers embody this element, resulting in innovative initiatives and groundbreaking decisions that address the needs of the community. We see this leadership in action with the South Carolina Public Charter School District’s bold move to launch an incubation program that stimulates the creation of new, high-quality charter schools to serve underprivileged neighborhoods. Additionally, the State University of New York’s approval of changes in teacher certification criteria to enhance the quality and diversity of educators is another example of leadership. Furthermore, the Washington, D.C., Public Charter School Board’s progressive use of data transparency to significantly reduce out-of-school suspensions and expulsions without mandating changes to schools’ climate or culture exemplifies leadership.

These authorizers have made intentional choices that reflect the local demographics, challenges, and resources, highlighting ways in which an authorizer can be responsive to its community.

This is how authorizers can contribute to fulfilling the promise of charter schools: by identifying community needs, going beyond mere compliance, and translating leadership, commitment, and judgment into outstanding educational opportunities for our children.

Karega Rausch, Ph.D., is serving as the interim CEO of the National Association of Charter School Authorizers.

Meet the Heroes: 11 Inspiring (and Unforgettable) Educators We Met in 2015

This article is part of a series on The Seventy-Four that showcases the remarkable individuals, achievements, success stories, and acts of kindness taking place in schools across America. To read more inspiring articles, visit The74million.org/series/inspiring.

As the holiday season approaches and we anticipate the arrival of 2016, the team at The Seventy-Four is still in awe of the courageous educators who have inspired us this year. From schools of all sizes, whether situated in bustling New York City or quiet corners of Montana, we have witnessed time and time again the profound impact that extraordinary educators are having on their students. These remarkable individuals are shaping the next generation of Americans, one student at a time.

We have seen the U.S. Coast Guard pilot who left his wings behind to support underserved students in Newark, New Jersey. We have been amazed by the superintendent in Florida who is leading his school district while also serving as principal of one of its most ambitious schools. The principal of Haven Academy in the Bronx, where the majority of students are part of the foster care system, has left us inspired. Additionally, we have witnessed teachers in Montana succeeding in turning around one of the state’s most remote Native American schools, despite the dysfunction in Washington, D.C.

Of course, we must mention the army of educators who have achieved astonishing turnarounds in New Orleans in the ten years since Hurricane Katrina. We spent several months in New Orleans this year, documenting their story. Make sure to check out our special report and watch our exclusive short film.

These leaders are just a small sample of the incredible educators we have encountered at The Seventy-Four. In 2015, our team has been privileged to come across numerous heroes like them. As we approach New Year’s Eve, and the familiar lyrics "should old acquaintance be forgot" come to mind, we firmly believe that old friends should not be forgotten. Similarly, the most inspiring educational leaders of the year should not be consigned to the archives.

So here they are – eleven school leaders we can’t stop applauding. These are eleven educational victories that deserve to be shared.

First on the list is Ms. Wilson, a first-grade teacher from Massachusetts. Sofia Wilson is making significant strides in improving students’ academic progress and is part of an ambitious campaign to turn around a failing school at Boston’s UP Academy. As one of a handful of charter school educators, she is providing opportunities to children from one of Boston’s toughest neighborhoods. Scott Given, the founder of UP Network, emphasizes the importance of addressing the issue of chronic underperformance in Massachusetts schools. For more details about Sofia Wilson and UP Academy, read our full story.

Next, we have Mr. Carvalho, a superintendent from Florida. Alberto Carvalho has revolutionized the schools in Miami, making Miami-Dade County Public Schools one of the top districts in the nation. His leadership has led to a significant increase in the number of magnet, charter, and "choice" schools, providing students with personalized learning plans in a range of specialties, from conservation biology to the performing arts to vocational training. In addition to his superintendent role, Carvalho also serves as a principal at one of the district’s top schools. To learn more about Alberto Carvalho and Miami-Dade County Schools, read our full story.

Our list also includes Ms. Nauiokas, a principal from the Bronx. Haven Academy in New York has made a significant impact on the lives of some of the most disadvantaged students in the Bronx, thanks to Principal Jessica Nauiokas. Two-thirds of the student body at Haven Academy are connected to the foster care system, and Nauiokas, along with her dedicated staff, aims to create a positive student culture that helps students overcome the challenges they face. For more information about Jessica Nauiokas and Haven Academy, read our full story.

Lastly, we have Mr. Hernandez, a principal from California. The severe drought in California has not only affected crops but has also put schools in the state’s Central Valley in jeopardy. Despite the difficulties, Baldomero Hernandez, the principal and superintendent of the West Side Elementary School District, has been a beacon of strength for his community. As migrant farmer families continue to leave in search of work, Hernandez has inspired his staff to advocate for the community and preserve its way of life. To learn more about Baldomero Hernandez and California’s drought-stricken schools, read our full story. You can also watch our exclusive documentary for a closer look.

Ms. McKenney, the superintendent of the Epping School District in New Hampshire, took an initiative to enhance the significance of standardized tests in her state. She oversaw a pilot program where students were required to complete local competency-based exams instead. These exams were designed to closely align with their everyday classroom work. If successful, this program could have a significant impact on accountability, measuring student progress, and evaluating teacher effectiveness in New Hampshire schools.

Mr. Hirst, the superintendent of Heart Butte School in Montana, shared an inspiring story of school turnaround. He has been motivating students to break the cycle of poverty that has persisted in their community for generations. Despite limited funding, Mr. Hirst, who also teaches French, has been enriching the school’s curriculum at a time when other schools are reducing course options. What makes this even more special is that he has incorporated the pride of tribal identity into the curriculum for students whose history has been traditionally marginalized.

Professor Ford, a researcher from Tennessee, sheds light on the slow progress of gifted education in America. She points out the struggle of gifted education programs in identifying and engaging talented minority students. Professor Ford considers this issue a national crisis and has extensively researched the gap between white students and their underrepresented peers of color. She is personally invested in this fight as she aims to secure a placement for her son in a gifted program that will allow him to excel.

Ms. Brown, an executive director from Boston, is known as the "grandmother" of America’s best charter schools. She is the founder and executive director of Building Excellent Schools and has developed a secret formula for building outstanding schools. The process involves admitting around twelve aspiring charter school leaders each year as fellows. These fellows observe some of the nation’s top charter schools to gain insights that help in designing new schools. Since 2003, Ms. Brown has assisted in launching 79 schools.

Ms. Quezada, an early education teacher in New York City, is part of the growing number of "second-generation" Teach For America (TFA) members. Having been taught by TFA teachers herself, she now serves as an educator in Manhattan’s Washington Heights neighborhood. Ms. Quezada aims to inspire her students and help them reach important learning and developmental milestones. Additionally, she hopes her work will expand her students’ expectations for their future, including attending college.

Mr. Martin, an educator from Newark, New Jersey, played a pivotal role in bringing progress to the city’s educational landscape. As a proponent of education reform, he worked to increase access to high-performing charter schools for the most disadvantaged students in Newark. Mr. Martin believes that education programs can act as a "great equalizer." His school has already achieved success, with a higher number of African-American students going on to college compared to other schools in Newark. He outlined the data behind Newark’s educational success story in an exclusive essay for The Seventy Four, emphasizing the importance of school choice.

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Philosophers vs. Welders: Rubio Trumpets Vocational Training in Debate that Again Skirts Education

Republican presidential candidates on Tuesday once again largely avoided discussing the issue of education during the debate focused on the economy. Instead, they used it as an opportunity to criticize traditional higher education.

Marco Rubio, the Florida Senator who has been gaining popularity in the polls, argued against raising the minimum wage and instead called for reforming higher education. He emphasized the importance of vocational training over liberal arts education, stating that welders earn more money than philosophers. Rubio suggested that promoting vocational training could lead to higher wages without the risk of automation replacing human workers due to a higher minimum wage.

However, this claim about welders earning more money was quickly debunked by media outlets. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those who teach philosophy and religion actually earn about $30,000 more per year than skilled workers who fuse metal.

Rubio’s comments may be seen as an attempt to appeal to blue collar workers in the Republican primary who may feel that the emphasis on obtaining a college degree undervalues their skills and achievements.

Continuing his criticism of higher education, Rubio argued that the current model is outdated, expensive, and difficult to access. He also claimed that it fails to teach the necessary skills for the 21st century.

On the campaign trail, Rubio has proposed a plan that would allow companies to invest in a college student by paying their tuition. In return, the student would repay a certain percentage of their wages to the company over a specified period of time. In the Senate, Rubio has supported legislation that would make non-accredited, innovative higher education programs eligible to receive federal funding.

Rubio was not the only candidate to criticize the belief that everyone must go to college. During the earlier "undercard" debate for lower-polling candidates, Rick Santorum, the former Pennsylvania Senator, criticized President Obama and other Washington politicians, including Republicans, who promote the idea that college is the only path to success. Santorum argued for providing opportunities for people to work immediately after high school.

Both Rubio and Santorum also expressed opposition to the Common Core State Standards, which aim to better prepare students for college and careers. However, organizations like the Chamber of Commerce and other business groups support these standards as a means of preparing future American workers.

EduClips: From Texas’s Dramatic Takeover of Houston Schools to the Learning Problems That Followed Flint’s Lead Poisoning, Education News You Missed This Week at America’s Top Districts

EduClips provides a compilation of the most important education news from the top 15 school districts in the United States. These districts cater to over 4 million students across 10 states. Previous editions of EduClips can be found here.

TEXAS — State Intervention in Houston ISD: The Texas State Education Agency announced its decision to take over the Houston Independent School District (HISD), which is one of the largest school districts in the country. This action is a result of the school board’s failure to effectively govern and the persistent academic struggles faced by Wheatley High School. State Education Commissioner Mike Morath will appoint a new school board and superintendent to oversee the district. This intervention did not come as a surprise, as reported by Aliyya Swaby. (Read more at The Texas Tribune)

VIRGINIA — Democratic Candidates Gain Control of Fairfax County School Board: The recent school board elections in Fairfax County, Virginia, witnessed a sweep by Democratic-backed candidates. Fairfax County is one of the largest school districts in the nation, with approximately 190,000 students and a yearly budget of $3 billion. Although the elections are officially nonpartisan, the campaigns were highly contested along party lines. One key issue that drove the competition was a proposal requiring district officials to consider students’ race and socioeconomic status when redrawing school boundaries. Republican-backed candidates made this proposal a central theme of their campaigns, as reported by Debbie Truong. Out of the 12 board members who will commence their four-year terms in January, eight are newcomers. (Read more at The Washington Post)

NATIONAL — Education Crisis in Flint: The lead crisis in Flint, Michigan has now spread from homes to schools. Students in the city are experiencing neurological and behavioral problems as a result, causing significant strain on the education system. Erica L. Green highlights the issues faced by schools in Flint, and points out that similar challenges are arising elsewhere. (Read more at The New York Times)

ILLINOIS — Status of Chicago Teachers Contract: Although students and teachers have returned to classrooms following the end of the 11-day Chicago teacher strike – the longest in the city since 1987 – the contract has not yet been finalized. Yana Kunichoff from Chalkbeat explains the remaining steps that the mayor, the teachers’ union, and their legal representatives need to complete in order to officially ratify the agreement. (Read more at Chalkbeat)

HAWAII — Expanding Swimming Opportunities for Hawaiian Students: A recent report highlights drowning as the third leading cause of death for children in Hawaii between 2014 and 2018. However, swimming lessons are often unaffordable for many families on the islands. To address this issue, individual schools are partnering with the Hawaii Aquatics Foundation to make swimming lessons and water safety more accessible to students in Hawaii. (Read more at Honolulu Civil Beat)

FLORIDA — Slow Progress on School Renovations: Despite receiving an $800 million bond from taxpayers five years ago to renovate 233 schools in Broward County, Florida, renovations have only been completed at eight schools. An analysis by Scott Travis reveals that most schools, which suffer from issues like leaky roofs, mold, and poor air quality, are still awaiting construction. (Read more at the South Florida Sun-Sentinel)

● Related from : Schools Have Lost $16B in Capital Funds Since the Great Recession. Those Buildings Are in Trouble — and That Means Problems for Students

Noteworthy Opinion & Analysis

TEACHER PAY: Can Early Childhood Education Programs Deliver if Lead Teachers Are Paid Less Than Dog Walkers? (Read at Education Week)

KID ECONOMICS: How Many Tootsie Rolls is a Snickers Bar Worth? Kids Have the Answer (Read at The Atlantic)

DISCIPLINE: Procedure Isn’t Enough: Insights from Advocating for Students at NYC Suspension Hearings (Read at Chalkbeat)

BOOK REVIEW: Transforming Navajo Nation High School to Foster College Aspirations (Read at The Hechinger Report)

What Else We’re Reading

ELECTIONS: Democrats Score Significant Wins in Kentucky and Virginia, while Education Reform Opponents Take Control in Denver (Read at )

RURAL SCHOOLS: Many Rural Districts Facing an Education "Emergency" (Read at Education Dive)

Exciting Update: Compassionate Ohio Mother Inspires Son’s Football Team to Assist Needy Players from a Local Team (Discover in Good Morning America)

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Blink and You Missed It: Besides a One-Sentence Call to ‘Pass School Choice,’ K-12 Education Is Notably Absent From President Trump’s State of the Union

The State of the Union address given by President Donald Trump on Tuesday paid little attention to K-12 education. The president only mentioned the issue once, without providing any details. This echoed his previous address to Congress in 2017, where he called on lawmakers to pass a bill allowing students to choose the school they want to attend, regardless of the type. The only significant change to federal school choice law during Trump’s administration was the expansion of tax-advantaged savings accounts to cover private K-12 tuition.

Education Secretary Betsy DeVos praised Trump’s advocacy for school choice and expressed her willingness to work with Congress on the issue. She emphasized that the freedom to choose the right education should not be limited to the privileged, but should be accessible to all students.

In contrast, the Democrats’ response, delivered by Stacey Abrams, touched on various K-12 education-related topics, including school safety, the cost of higher education, high-quality schools, and teacher pay. Abrams emphasized the importance of providing safe schools and equal standards for all children, regardless of their location. She also called for new gun safety measures and greater support for educators.

While Trump’s speech focused on other major issues, such as immigration and infrastructure, his remarks lacked substantive discussion on education. His immigration discussion revolved around enforcement, border security, and the construction of a border wall with Mexico. He did not address the fate of the DACA program, which protects young undocumented immigrants. Trump claimed that "mass illegal immigration" is straining schools, although a Supreme Court ruling in 1982 prohibits discrimination in K-12 education based on immigration status.

Regarding infrastructure spending, Trump emphasized the need for bipartisan unity, but did not specifically include schools in his proposals. Democrats have argued that any legislation to rebuild infrastructure should also address the issue of deteriorating educational facilities.

Education did receive some attention during the State of the Union address through the presence of certain guests in the House chamber. Both Trump and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi invited parents of students killed in the Parkland shooting, while the president also invited a middle school student who claimed to be bullied due to his last name. Critics pointed out the irony of this invitation considering the president’s own history of Twitter insults and the rise of bullying incidents since his election.

Presidential addresses have rarely highlighted education as a prominent issue. Last year, DACA was the only school-related topic discussed by Trump. In contrast, former President Barack Obama used State of the Union addresses to introduce significant initiatives related to education, such as a free community college program in 2015 and a pre-K expansion in 2013, although these initiatives did not become law.

Many of the Trump administration’s major K-12 proposals, such as the voucher program, have been presented through the annual budget requests. However, the government shutdown caused a delay in the release of Trump’s budget proposal, which is now expected in mid-March, according to the Office of Management and Budget.

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Analysis: The ‘One Percent’ Leaders of America’s Top Teachers Unions, All Making More Than $300,000 a Year

Mike Antonucci’s Union Report is published every Wednesday and you can access the complete archive.

Randi Weingarten, the president of the American Federation of Teachers, with an annual salary of $472,197, expressed her frustration by saying, "It’s unfair that we have to live from paycheck to paycheck."

Income inequality is a highly debated topic, with labor unions positioning themselves as the defenders of the working class against the wealthy elite.

However, it is worth noting that the top officials of these unions have also reached the ranks of the ultra-wealthy, benefiting greatly from their position.

Financial analysts at DQYDJ.com specialize in analyzing personal income and net worth. Using data from the U.S. Census Bureau, they determined that to be in the top 1% of pre-tax income in 2016, an individual needed to have earned at least $300,800.

Upon reviewing the financial disclosure reports from the U.S. Department of Labor for the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), I found that NEA President Lily Eskelsen García ($317,826), Executive Director John Stocks ($355,721), AFT President Randi Weingarten ($472,197), Secretary-Treasurer Lorretta Johnson ($359,584), and Executive Vice President Mary Cathryn Ricker ($325,314) all comfortably exceeded this threshold.

I also conducted a comprehensive analysis of NEA’s workforce salaries, taking note of the temporary employees versus full-time workers. Among the NEA employees, alongside Eskelsen García and Stocks, 18 others were found to be in the top 2% of U.S. wage earners, and an additional 104 fell within the top 5%.

In total, NEA’s payroll for 2016 amounted to over $68.6 million for its 555 employees, resulting in an average income of $123,613 per worker. This places the average NEA worker within the top 8% of wage earners in the United States. To provide context, the average salary of teachers in 2016, $58,353, positioned them in the top 30%.

While NEA’s monetary compensation is generous, its pension and benefit package is even more substantial.

It is crucial to acknowledge that there are individuals with significantly higher annual incomes than those of teachers union officers, some of whom advocate for education policies that contradict those of NEA and AFT. However, it seems that the unions have adopted a commonly held definition of the wealthy as "anyone who earns more than me."

If you have any tips, feel free to email me at mike@the74million.org.

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‘An Immediate Threat’: National School Board Group Calls on Biden to Combat ‘Domestic Terrorism’ Toward Educators During Pandemic Turmoil

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The 90,000-member National School Boards Association has written a letter urging the Biden administration to take action against the increasing threats and violence towards education leaders. The tensions surrounding schools’ pandemic response and teachings about systemic racism have created a volatile environment that poses an immediate threat to schools and educators. The association is calling on the federal government to utilize existing statutes, such as the Gun-Free School Zones Act and the PATRIOT Act, to investigate, intercept, and prevent these threats and acts of violence against public school officials. They emphasize the need for a collaborative effort between local and federal law enforcement agencies to address what they describe as "domestic terrorism" occurring at school board meetings, through the U.S. Postal Service, and on social media.

The association highlighted over 20 instances of threats, harassment, and intimidation targeting education officials during school board meetings in recent months. They attribute this increase in aggression to the approval of mask policies and the inclusion of critical race theory in classroom instruction and curricula. The combination of attacks against school board members and educators and the physical threats received due to false propaganda has created a critical time that necessitates a proactive approach to protect the safety and well-being of those involved.

The White House has yet to respond to the letter and provide a comment on the matter.

School board meetings have become a focal point of political unrest, with conservative groups and former Trump administration officials capitalizing on public frustration as part of their campaign strategy. While news articles have reported on the divisive and occasionally violent rhetoric expressed during these meetings, it remains unclear if any education leaders have been physically harmed.

There have been specific instances of violence and threats against school officials. In Illinois, a man was arrested for allegedly assaulting a school official during a board meeting. In Ohio, a school board member received a threatening letter warning of retaliation for implementing mask mandates. School leaders across the country have also shared incidents of online threats and vandalism targeted at them. Some school districts, like the Rockwood School District in suburban St. Louis, have resorted to hiring private security to ensure staff safety.

The National Association of Secondary School Principals has joined the call for federal officials to do more to protect school leaders from hostility and violence. They believe these disruptive actions pose a threat to the safety of educators and students.

Both the school boards association and AASA, The School Superintendents Association, issued a joint statement condemning the use of violent threats during board and community meetings. They stress the importance of freedom of speech but emphasize that aggression, intimidation, threats, and violence against superintendents, board members, and educators will not be tolerated.

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After Avalanche of Mail-In and Provisional Ballots Swings Close Race, State Assemblyman Tony Thurmond to Become California’s Next State Superintendent

Tony Thurmond graciously accepted the concession call from Marshall Tuck, marking his victory as California’s state superintendent of public instruction eleven days after the election. A spokesperson for Tuck’s campaign confirmed that Tuck conceded in a phone call to Thurmond on Saturday morning. Thurmond expressed his gratitude to the voters of California in a tweet and stated his commitment to being a champion of public schools and serving all students in the state.

Thurmond, aged 50, is currently a state assemblyman and has a background as a social worker and school board member in the San Francisco Bay area. He had the support of the influential teachers union and other labor groups throughout California, which has been a common factor in the past 24 years for state superintendents.

Initially, Tuck, aged 45, had an 86,000-vote lead after Election Day, but as provisional and mail-in ballots were counted, Thurmond surpassed Tuck’s margin by nearly three times. The official results will only be determined once all votes are counted and certified in December, with approximately 2 million votes remaining.

The 325,000-member California Teachers Association played a pivotal role in the election, with their support and efforts for candidates like Thurmond who advocate for quality public schools. The role of state superintendent lacks partisan affiliation and significant statutory power, but the record-breaking $60 million spent on the race demonstrated its importance as a platform. A victory for Tuck would have provided a counterbalance to education reformers against Governor-elect Gavin Newsom, his appointed state board of education, and the Democratic majority in the state legislature, all of whom received support from teachers unions.

The key focus of the race revolved around the debate over school choice in California. Thurmond and Tuck, both Democrats, opposed for-profit charters and called for increased transparency measures. However, Thurmond suggested a "pause" on new charter schools until additional revenues can be allocated to offset the financial loss experienced by district schools when students transfer to charters. Tuck argued against school districts being able to reject new charter petitions due to potential financial hardship.

Additionally, both candidates agreed on the inclusion of more underachieving subgroups, such as African Americans, in the state’s Local Control Funding Formula. They also supported free preschool for all children and emphasized the need for additional mental health support for students.

Tuck, in contrast to Thurmond, aimed to change how school districts could use the extra funding, particularly opposing across-the-board raises for teachers. Thurmond did not comment on whether he would continue this practice. Bill Lucia, president and CEO of EdVoice, an education advocacy organization that supported Tuck’s campaign, expressed the hope that Thurmond would follow through on his promises and make tough decisions to improve California’s public schools, despite potential pushback from special interest groups.

Tuck served as the president of Green Dot Public Schools, a nonprofit organization that manages charter schools in Los Angeles since its establishment in 1999. Additionally, he was the founding CEO of the Partnership for Los Angeles Schools, a network formed ten years ago by former Los Angeles mayor Antonio Villaraigosa after his unsuccessful attempt to take control of the Los Angeles Unified School District.

In a message to his supporters on Saturday, Tuck expressed his congratulations to Assemblymember Thurmond for his victory in the election. He offered his assistance in ensuring Thurmond’s success and wished him well in his new role. Recognizing that victory was not within his reach, Tuck believed it was in the best interest of California’s children to concede at this point, allowing Thurmond ample time to prepare for his role as State Superintendent. It is important to note that while the votes are still being counted, conceding allows the candidates to move forward.

Tuck acknowledged the difficulty of embracing change and the disheartening aspect of politics, especially in the face of defeat. However, he emphasized that winning the election should not be the ultimate goal, but rather ensuring that all children in the state and country, regardless of their backgrounds, have access to high-quality public schools. Tuck stressed the importance of persevering and quickly moving past this loss, as achieving the goal of providing a quality education to all children will require dedicated effort.