Helping Delaware Black Parents Create School Success

Parental Involvement discussion on MSNBC's Making the Grade

2011-08-16T09:29:00.000-07:00

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Booker T. Washington High grad Deonte Bridges' Valedictorian speech

2011-07-28T14:23:00.000-07:00

JAMES BROWN & THE FAMOUS FLAMES Don't Be A Dropout

2011-07-23T15:34:00.000-07:00

Harvard Educational Review

2011-03-09T09:43:00.000-08:00

Now that I have watched the documentary "The Lottery" about the Harlem Success Academy Charter Schools, I am going to find a copy of this documentary "Two Million Minutes" and keep trying to figure out what "Achievement" means particularly to African American public school parents in the U.S. today. One thing I know for sure is that "achievement" is a very misunderstood idea.

Held Captive: Child Poverty in America

2010-12-27T18:13:00.000-08:00

Held Captive: Child Poverty in America

Please read this article and get more insight into children and poverty - it's very intense reading.

The Public High School Special: A Real Education - Delaware Today - January 2011 - Delaware

2010-12-27T17:27:00.000-08:00

The Public High School Special: A Real Education - Delaware Today - January 2011 - Delaware

So now Concord High School joins Brandywine Springs in Red Clay as another school CLOSED TO CHOICE because of capacity issues. Perhaps I will never understand the true intent of the Neighborhood Schools Act and why North Star, Brandywine Springs and now Concord High are allowed to close their schools to "Choice. " Parents, please be aware of your "choice."

Parents Monitor Kids' Grades and Assigments Online

2010-10-08T08:49:00.000-07:00

Parents Monitor Kids' Grades and Assigments Online

A must read article in the October 2010 issue of Metrokids. Bookmark http://www.metrokids.com.

Our Children - Our Schools - Our Future

2010-10-06T08:23:00.000-07:00

The Governor's weekly message declares October as Parent Involvement Month. The message was released on Friday, October 1 and I read it on the Governor's webpage. The Governor failed to directly mention "Parents and/or Guardians" as an essential part of the parent involvement puzzle. He states:

"Teachers, students, private sector employers and community leaders are coming together to talk about what we are doing to improve student achievement in Delaware."

"This Monday, educators and employers, PTA members and policy makers will be getting together to proclaim October “Parental Involvement Month” in Delaware."

I have to wonder, exactly where does the parent and guardian fit in. Why is the "PTA member" or "Community Leader" included in his thought and not the "Parent"? The reality is that in the city of Wilmington, the Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Godparents, Church Pastors, and Mentors are frequently more involved with the child's educational needs than some parents. This is the truth as I see it, but "Parents" are still the parents, and most are very dedicated to their children's future. I've observed that most Wilmington parents are "involved" on a daily basis, but other adults in the extended family might be more visible, knowledgeable and comfortable with the school processes and procedures. These are the people the Governor is referring to in his weekly address.

Think for a moment of the parent or guardian who is not computer literate and does not have access to the internet at home. This is where you will find school calendars/events/teacher webpages, and sometimes school handbooks. E-mail correspondence is much more accurate with teachers than voice messages left on a phone. If I could magically change one thing, I would make at least "ONE COMPUTER ACCESSIBLE TO PARENTS/GUARDIANS" within each school in this state. This access would be "AT DESIGNATED TIMES," so that parents could easily view their child's Home Access Center and SSP information. Every school, charter or not, should have to publish the dates and times of public school board meetings on their school website. This is the minimum that should be done for parent involvement to happen in a school. "Extended families" are today's family unit, and there are many others giving educational support. These people are part to a truly successful parent network. A community or business leader is not a "family unit." These are not the key players in motivating a child to get up and want to go to school and learn. This happens at the place where the child eats and sleeps.

During Parent Involvement Month, please don't forget that Howard High School won the State Parent Involvement Award for 2010 and was then identified as having one of the lowest test score rankings in the State of Delaware. This tells me that "our children - our schools - our future" cannot create true success without "our family" buying in. Parent involvement can never be a competition when families are so different. Winning the award did not keep Howard from being labeled as a "failing school" in Delaware this year. There are many besides me wondering, just how did a school come to rank tops in parent involvement and so low in achievement? This a contradiction in terms! Yet, I applaud Howard High for recognizing the relevance of parent involvement and going way beyond the bake sale. I admire their efforts. As parents, we must stay foremost partners in "Our Children's Future" and work to rid Wilmington of the current profusion of "failing schools".

Our Children - Our Schools - Our Future

How do schools promote equity among students?

2010-09-28T09:04:00.000-07:00

Please watch this video and give some serious thought to the teachings of this professor. He is a social scientist trying to present a clear picture of education inequities. I think it is important for Black parents to know we are the biggest part of the solution.

There's upcoming Screenings of "Beyond the Bricks" are in Baltimore and Philadephia. 'Beyond the Bricks' Documentary features Dr. Pedro Noguera, Peter L. Agnew Professor of Education at New York University & Executive Director of the Metropolitan Center for Urban Education

October 9, 2010
Baltimore, MD
Morgan State University
Student Center
1700 East Cold Spring Lane • Baltimore, MD 21251

November 6, 2010
Philadelphia, PA
Community College of Philadelphia
1700 Spring Garden Street • Philadelphia, PA 19130

object height="344" style="background-image: url(http://i2.ytimg.com/vi/AkQBl5ALLkA/hqdefault.jpg);" width="425">

BlackBottom.com - Grammar Rock Verb

2010-09-16T15:26:00.000-07:00

BlackBottom.com - Grammar Rock Verb

Public Affairs: Lauren Wilson Reports: Reach Academy for Girls

2010-09-15T14:12:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, October 13, 2010 - Wilmington City Council Education, Youth & Families Committee Meeting

2010-09-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Parents & Families, won't you please attend with me as I attend my first committee mtg in-person. The meeting time, at 4:30 p.m., was a problem when I used to work an evening shift. Thankfully, I no longer work those hours, so I now have the ability to attend at least some of these meetings. If you are truly interested in having better schools,libraries, and youth opportunities in the City & in your own neighborhood, then you need to be at some of these meetings. Our children are failing in school because we are not supporting every child in our local schools. We need to know our local representatives and know how to contact them at all times. All the City Council members on this committee are trying to make a positive difference in your family life in our city. They were elected to serve us. It's time for parents to get with it and help create a good learning environment in our communities. I cannot complain about any decisions being made if I am not willing to come to the table (meetings) and pay close attention to what is being said. This is an opportunity for parent empowerment & I'm trying to make you aware of that.

4:30 PM Education, Youth & Families Committee Meeting
Council Workshop, 1st Floor
Louis L. Redding City/County Bldg.
800 N. French Street, Wilmington

Standing Committee of Council - 105th Session
EDUCATION, YOUTH & FAMILIES

Hanifa G.N. Shabazz, Chair
Charles Potter, Jr.
Stephanie T. Bolden
Kevin F. Kelley, Sr.
Stephen L Martelli
Michael A. Brown, Sr.
Justen A. Wright

The Commission on No Child Left Behind

2010-09-10T10:08:00.000-07:00

Discussions are underway again about NCLB reform. Please be aware.

Aspen Take Two: The Commission on No Child Left Behind is Back in Business

Delaware State Parent Advisory Council Strategic Plan 2010-2012

2010-09-09T15:09:00.000-07:00

I ask everyone interested in parent involvement policies in Delaware schools to read this 24-page document and join the discussion as we take action to implement it in the coming months. Since December 2009, many groups of parents and community members, which included me, have worked faithfully to make this the best possible plan of action for parent engagement. DSPAC does reach out for feedback as critical decisions continue to be made. The next meeting to discuss this completed plan is Saturday, September 11, 2010, which is 9-11 Patriot Day. DSPAC will meet at the Dover Public Library at 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. This is everyone's great opportunity to effect change in school communities in our state. See you in Dover, Delaware on Saturday.

4 Partnership Zone schools

2010-09-01T01:34:00.000-07:00

The full article about the Turnaround schools is in today's News Journal. Howard High's graduation rate is showing 96.97 in the chart. The real meaning of the term "H.S. Graduation Rates" is unclear to many parents. Please keep in mind that "Graduation from H.S. does not mean that your child is College and Career Ready." As Black Parents, we must examine each school as a whole to determine its effectiveness. The School Choice application process begins in November, just 2 months from now, so it is very crucial read about the schools you are choosing. Please begin thinking seriously about your choices. Once again, I urge parents to take a very serious interest in the schools you are sending your children to each day. Help the schools to eliminate achievement gaps. Keep encouraging your child to learn. You are capable of creating success in your family.

Two Del. students to be selected for Senate Youth Program - Dover, DE - Dover Post

2010-08-31T14:04:00.000-07:00

Two Del. students to be selected for Senate Youth Program - Dover, DE - Dover Post

Let the selection begin. Parents, please pay attention.

Poor performing Delaware schools must choose path to improvement

2010-08-31T13:30:00.000-07:00

Poor performing Delaware schools must choose path to improvement

Many 8th grade students at Edison Charter chose Howard High School based on the belief that the school was a good school choice. Now this school is targeted for turnaround. It has to be a real shocker for 9th grade parents. This is not acceptable for parents to be told the school is doing fine and to choose this school and then the Principal and staff are turned around. Doesn't make much sense to win a parent involvement award from the State and then have staff turned around. All I can say is I'm disappointed it's come to this.

Want Turnaround Money? Involve Parents, Duncan Proposes

2010-07-29T08:12:00.000-07:00

Want Turnaround Money? Involve Parents, Duncan Proposes

Now we need parents with children enrolled in schools using School Improvement Grants to ask how the parent involvement policy is being implemented in the school. If you can't find out from the school what is planned, then you need to contact the State Department of Education for further explanation. These are Federal Grants with guidelines. Parents are supposed to be part of the School Improvement Teams at the schools that are under improvement. Once again the problem in the City of Wilmington is the fact that parents move children from school to school and therefore are not at the schools the previous semester when these Improvement would have made the parent involvement decisions. There is also a high turnover of Principals, which means you might have a completely different administration from year to year. This is my observation of the confusion that is going on with Parent Involvement Policies in the Schools under improvement.

Parent involvement efforts in Renaissance process: successful, but messy | Philadelphia Public School Notebook

2010-07-19T01:34:00.000-07:00

Parent involvement efforts in Renaissance process: successful, but messy | Philadelphia Public School Notebook

As the charter and public schools in the City of Wilmington are "turned around" in various ways, the parents are going to have to take a more active parent involvement role in the success of these schools. We only have to look to the nearest city, Philadelphia, for insight into the struggles that true parent and community engagement will bring. It's my honest opinion that parents and community, as taxpayers and concerned citizens, have a duty and right to know that resources are being used wisely in their local schools. When a school charter is revoked and a parent must enroll the child in a different public school, the parent needs to find ways to stay engaged in that new school. It may be a messy process, as in the article above, but in these tough times, parents must be willing to be part of the solution. Our children deserve better than low-performing school systems. The research has proven that early intervention is a major key to learning challenges. As parents, we need to find out what the learning challenges are in our child's school and then find out what intervention programs are working and how to keep these programs funded and working well. There are many parent discussions and parent dialogues that must happen on parent councils and within parent organizations if our schools are going to thrive and become excellent for our children. I would rather see a "messy" parent council than "no" parent council. For those who don't know, the mission and vision of a "parent council" is not the same as the mission of a PTA or PTO.

Delaware chases education reform and Obama administration funding giveaway

2010-06-06T05:02:00.000-07:00

Delaware chases education reform and Obama administration funding giveaway

"It’s not about black and white; it’s about the community and the facilitation by parents"

"The fact is that the “achievement gap” is directly related to the societal, familial and community settings in which these children are raised."

I absolutely agree with the above statements and as a parent, I am trying to work on improving these "settings". It does take a collaborative effort and that is not an instant process. It takes valuable time, sacrifice and hard work. This is not a new idea. Anything worthwhile endeavor takes time.

DEDOE Governor and Education Secretary Accept Donation of Black History Program DVDs [Delaware Department of Education]

2010-06-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

DEDOE Governor and Education Secretary Accept Donation of Black History Program DVDs [Delaware Department of Education]

Our African American (Black) children need to study Black History year round. Please, Parents, do make sure your school library participates in sharing these DVD's with your children and hopefully even the parent organizations within the schools. This can spark interest in something greater.

Mt. Pleasant student finds the drive to succeed - Hockessin, DE - The Community News

2010-06-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

Mt. Pleasant student finds the drive to succeed - Hockessin, DE - The Community News

Again, my congratulation to the student, family and the Delaware Futures Program staff. This is what success looks like.

Howard High School valedictorian refuses to dim her light - Hockessin, DE - The Community News

2010-06-02T08:47:00.000-07:00

Howard High School valedictorian refuses to dim her light - Hockessin, DE - The Community News
I want to keep reading positive news articles like this one. Congratulations to this student and her family. Thank you, Delaware Futures, for continuing to work in the community with our children.

A brother like me : a memoir (Book, 1995) [WorldCat.org]

2010-05-28T11:01:00.000-07:00

A brother like me : a memoir (Book, 1995) [WorldCat.org]

Just read excerpts from this book at Google Reads. I will recommend this for parents summer reading. The nearest library to Delaware with the book is Univ. of PA. This is a must read for me. I will buy a copy on-line. Also noticed on Amazon.com that this book was published by Queenhyte in Wilmington Delaware. Now my interest is really peaked.

Encyclopedia of African-American education (Book, 1996) [WorldCat.org]

2010-05-28T10:02:00.000-07:00

I just read some pages from this book on "google books preview". This book goes into the history of all the achievement gap debates and issues that we are currently discussing. Looks like we are revisiting an issue that was already tackled 20+ years ago.
This book is available in the Reference Section at UD's Morris Library. Please add this to your adult summer reading list, especially if you are an African American parent in the city of Wilmington, like me. This book is also in the library at 5 area libraries in PA, including Widener and Bryn Mawr. Just check at your local college in other states if you're interested. You will be a better informed parent.
Encyclopedia of African-American education (Book, 1996) [WorldCat.org]

Here's an Editorial Review from Barnes & Noble's website:

From the Publisher

"The African-American population is unique in that its educational history includes as law and public policy the systematic, long-term denial of the acquisition of knowledge. In the 18th century, African-Americans were initially legally forbidden to be taught academic subjects in the South, where most African-Americans lived. This period, which ended around 1865 with the conclusion of the Civil War and the establishment of the Freedmen's Bureau, was followed by the introduction of laws, policies, and practices providing for rudimentary education for 69 years under the dual-school, separate-but-equal policies established by Plessy v. Ferguson (1896). These policies did not end until the Brown v. Board of Education decisions of 1954 and 1955 were reinforced by the passage of civil rights and equal opportunity legislation in the mid-1960s.

The education of African-Americans has been a continuing moral, political, legal, economic, andpsychological issue throughout this country's history. It continues to consume time and attention, and it remains an unresolved dilemma for the nation."

7 Things Every Parent and Educator Should Know About Learning Challenges

2010-05-18T06:57:00.000-07:00

7 Things Every Parent and Educator Should Know About Learning Challenges

Winning the Race - Delaware Today - June 2010 - Delaware

2010-05-15T06:11:00.000-07:00

June 2010 Issue of Delaware Today has an article on the Prestige Academy founder, Jack Perry. We need to read it.

Winning the Race - Delaware Today - June 2010 - Delaware

Back to School Thoughts

2010-05-14T04:14:00.001-07:00

Ever notice when its time to go back to school most advertisements are geared towards clothes and sneakers and crap, but not pencils and papers.

Why our children are not winning Math League Competitions

2010-05-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

The News Journal article "Delaware schools : Math League results", is a sad read for me.
It's not a suprise that "Superior" and "Private" schools have again dominated and won at the State Math League finals. Just maybe public school children in the city of Wilmington are not being equipped to compete in math contests. We must also keep insisting that our children are taught by highly qualified Math teachers. As the teacher turnover rate remains high in our city schools, it is not so easy to figure out just who is teaching our children in any class from month to month. The best advice that I can offer to parents is to check with your school administration (Principal/Vice Principal) about the math instruction that your child is getting on a daily basis. You must find out what the math standards are so you will know if your child is meeting that standard. As our African American children move into middle school and high school, their level of instruction, especially in Math class, must be at grade level with other schools statewide. Let's face it, our children will not win any Math League trophies with low grades and low classroom performance levels. Please read all papers with teacher comments on them when you check your child's bookbag. Every child can be motivated to learn. Let's get our middle school children in Wilmington prepared to compete. Find out from the school leader why your child's teacher is not highly qualified. We must never forget the lesson of Moyer Academy and how the lack of "highly-qualified math teachers" was so critical in the debate on the charter non-renewal.

We must be responsible enought to make sure that our children are prepared for high school and life beyond.

2010-05-13T06:56:00.001-07:00

Helping Your Child Make the Grade

2010-05-13T03:47:00.000-07:00

Parent Involvement

2010-05-13T03:40:00.000-07:00

Prospective Scholars | Carson Scholars Fund

2010-05-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

Prospective Scholars Carson Scholars Fund

Educating African American Boys : Education Next

2010-05-08T06:19:00.000-07:00

Educating African American Boys : Education Next

A Closer Look at Charter Schools and Segregation : Education Next

2010-05-08T05:49:00.000-07:00

A Closer Look at Charter Schools and Segregation : Education Next

Stedman Graham - How Parents can impact their teens

2010-05-06T14:40:00.000-07:00

Parents Can Prevent Cyberbullying | PTA

2010-05-05T03:43:00.000-07:00

Here's a great article I came across on the PTA website. There's a need for parent awareness about bullying in and out of school. Like the article says, "we must help children..." See: Parents Can Prevent Cyberbullying PTA

Teacher Magazine: Ill. Book Club Brings Men and Students Together

2010-05-04T18:22:00.000-07:00

Teacher Magazine: Ill. Book Club Brings Men and Students Together

2010-05-03T21:06:00.001-07:00

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Creating a Personal Library for Children: How to Teach Children to Read | eHow.com

2010-05-02T12:43:00.000-07:00

Creating a Personal Library for Children: How to Teach Children to Read eHow.com

Teaching Children to Take Care of Books: How to Teach Children to Read | eHow.com

2010-05-02T12:40:00.000-07:00

Teaching Children to Take Care of Books: How to Teach Children to Read eHow.com

Exposing Children to Various Reading Materials: How to Teach Children to Read | eHow.com

2010-05-02T12:31:00.000-07:00

Exposing Children to Various Reading Materials: How to Teach Children to Read eHow.com

Lt. Governor Matt Denn - Press Release - Lieutenant Governor Announces Winners of School Parental Involvement Awards

2010-04-23T16:52:00.000-07:00

Lt. Governor Matt Denn - Press Release - Lieutenant Governor Announces Winners of School Parental Involvement Awards

There is now a Parent Involvement Survey on Lt. Governor Denn's website. Please thoughtfully answer the survey so that your response can be documented.

Benjamin Hooks: Visionary Videos: NVLP: African American History

2010-04-20T15:47:00.001-07:00

Benjamin Hooks: Visionary Videos: NVLP: African American History

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Dorothy I. Height: Visionary Videos: NVLP: African American History

2010-04-20T15:43:00.001-07:00

Dorothy I. Height: Visionary Videos: NVLP: African American History

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Street: Local control should extend to the city - Hockessin, DE - The Community News

2010-04-16T04:15:00.001-07:00

Street: Local control should extend to the city - Hockessin, DE - The Community News

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The Tavis Smiley Show

2010-04-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

The Tavis Smiley Show

Urban Prep's success is so inspirational.

Only 4% of the graduating class came in reading at grade level. Now 100% are accepted into college.

Book List for Children

2010-04-07T16:03:00.000-07:00

Check out "Celebrate Our U. S. Heritage: 76 Unforgettable Books for Black History Month (and Every Month)" on ReadKiddoRead

To view this blog post, visit:
http://readkiddoread.ning.com/profiles/blog/show?id=2244625%3ABlogPost%3A28977

Rapping Math Teachers Bring It | Edutopia

2010-04-07T16:01:00.000-07:00

Rapping Math Teachers Bring It | Edutopia

Dorothy Rich: “Slumdog Millionaire” Teaches About Education, Too - Teachers.Net Gazette

2010-04-06T15:58:00.000-07:00

Dorothy Rich: “Slumdog Millionaire” Teaches About Education, Too - Teachers.Net Gazette

Bullying Prevention Program

2010-04-02T03:43:00.000-07:00

Bullying Prevention Program

Choosing a School: First Steps

2010-04-02T03:41:00.000-07:00

Choosing a School: First Steps

Choosing a School: How to Evaluate

2010-04-02T03:40:00.000-07:00

Choosing a School: How to Evaluate

PhillyBurbs.com: Get ready for the Free Library Festival

2010-03-24T15:30:00.001-07:00

PhillyBurbs.com: Get ready for the Free Library Festival

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The Science of Making Up Stuff

2010-03-20T05:49:00.000-07:00

Education is the next big hurdle after Health Reform, so be prepared for a lot of "scientific research" about school achievement and underachievement.

The Science of Making Up Stuff

All Seniors in Chicago School Going to College - ABC News

2010-03-18T18:06:00.000-07:00

They started with only 4 Percent of incoming 9th grade reading at grade level. 100 percent African American. 2010 is first graduation class out of Urban Prep. No excuses.

All Seniors in Chicago School Going to College - ABC News

Urban Prep: 100 percent of Englewood’s Urban Prep Academy for Young Men admitted to college - chicagotribune.com

2010-03-18T15:36:00.001-07:00

Urban Prep: 100 percent of Englewood’s Urban Prep Academy for Young Men admitted to college - chicagotribune.com

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Kids sing of 'Scholar Ladies'

2010-03-18T08:59:00.001-07:00

This Youtube video was on CBS News last night. Classes are watching it in schools.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zGFqSji420

Here's an article about it - Kids sing of 'Scholar Ladies' — not Beyonce's 'Single Ladies' - Chicago Tribune Archives

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Great Comment at February DE State Parent Parent Advisory Council Meeting

2010-03-18T08:46:00.001-07:00

We need to go directly to our legislators with our education concerns; but "you can't go in there blundering & stumbling." You have to know all the facts. You have to read and study.

News from Parent Information Center of Delaware

2010-03-04T21:48:00.001-08:00

News from Parent Information Center of Delaware

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Moyer Academy Students have organized their own March to Save the School from Closing

2010-03-03T08:51:00.001-08:00

March with them on Friday, March 5, 2010 at 9:30 a.m. from the School Site on E. 17th Street to the Carvel State Office Building in downtown Wilmington. I hope the entire City of Wilmington will stand with these determined children as they fight for the right to keep this "Commendable" school open. The school is only 3 years open and the Buildings are new. Please support the children from 9:30am to 1:30am in this compelling fight for educational opportunity and fairness.

EDITORIAL: Parental involvement helps children learn - The Oakland Press Opinion: The best place for news in and around Oakland County

2010-02-15T07:53:00.001-08:00

EDITORIAL: Parental involvement helps children learn - The Oakland Press Opinion: The best place for news in and around Oakland County

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PaperBackSwap.com: Free Online Book Club to Swap, Trade & Exchange Books.

2010-02-06T03:13:00.000-08:00

PaperBackSwap.com: Free Online Book Club to Swap, Trade & Exchange Books.

Non-Violence Activity

2010-02-04T13:12:00.000-08:00

Do this activity with children and they will learn about the legacy of MLK Jr. in a fun way.

Every District, Union, Charter and School Board Signs DE’s Race to the Top

2010-01-25T20:53:00.000-08:00

Every District, Union, Charter and School Board Signs DE’s Race to the Top

Red Clay Consolidated School District

2010-01-07T08:44:00.000-08:00

Red Clay Consolidated School District

Helping Low-Income Parents Help Their Kids

2009-12-24T03:31:00.001-08:00

Helping Low-Income Parents Help Their Kids

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Please read and understand the Student Code of Conduct

2009-10-13T08:56:00.001-07:00

There's a good example at Downes Elementary School in Newark, DE of why parents need to read the code of conduct at the beginning of every school year. I found that you might have ask for a copy. See Christina School district interactive activity at :

http://www.csdcode.org/

Delaware School Choice Decision-Making

2009-10-04T11:07:00.000-07:00

Trying to upload some video about School Choice to give parents more information about the process and why it is so difficult to navigate in Wilmington.

Selecting a high school: Not a level playing field | Philadelphia Public School Notebook

2009-09-06T01:07:00.001-07:00

Selecting a high school: Not a level playing field | Philadelphia Public School Notebook

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Events Calendar of the Parent Information Center of Delaware

2009-08-25T06:18:00.001-07:00

Events Calendar of the Parent Information Center of Delaware

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Senate bill 68, 151, and HB 119

2009-08-20T11:44:00.001-07:00

I suspect that the parents and guardians who have the most need to read and understand these laws are not going to care or pay attention. The reason why is because they have given up on the public school system in Delaware. It is a tragic shame, given the honorable sacrifices of notable education advocates through the years. Some of this apathy in the city of Wilmington, where I live , is due to a sense of powerlessness among parents who are confused about school ratings and school choices. Some very average students can and do become highly successful leaders when they have exposure to quality educational programs.

Events Calendar of the Parent Information Center of Delaware

2009-08-18T10:15:00.001-07:00

Events Calendar of the Parent Information Center of Delaware

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Events Calendar of the Parent Information Center of Delaware

2009-08-11T11:15:00.001-07:00

Events Calendar of the Parent Information Center of Delaware

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Questions Parents Ask About Schools - WBOC-TV 16, Delmarvas News Leader, FOX 21 -

2009-07-29T23:19:00.001-07:00

Questions Parents Ask About Schools - WBOC-TV 16, Delmarvas News Leader, FOX 21 -

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Nine steps to a smart start - Back-to-school prep

2009-07-21T09:01:00.001-07:00

Nine steps to a smart start - Back-to-school prep

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Obama's Speech emphasizing Education at NAACP Centennial 2009

2009-07-19T08:37:00.000-07:00

Speaks directly to Black Parents. No excuses.

Getting on Board with Vision 2015

2009-07-13T09:55:00.001-07:00

Delaware Education Secretary Lillian Lowery thinks the First State is in a good position to win the money.

I must say winning money is not the answer to our school improvement problem. This quote makes it seem like a game to win or lose. Low performing can go to high performing with parents working with schools. Doesn't take a rocket scientist to see it.

Local School To Close Its Doors - WBOC-TV 16, Delmarvas News Leader, FOX 21 -

2009-07-08T01:51:00.001-07:00

Local School To Close Its Doors - WBOC-TV 16, Delmarvas News Leader, FOX 21 -

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Here is an example in the news of a private school near the Delaware border closing due to declining enrollment. Let's be aware that schools are indeed closing and school choice options are changing all the time. Declining enrollment in Brandywine School District caused several school closings (Darly/Tally, etc) in recent years, so when you come across any schools closings, it's prudent to read the articles and ask yourself why it happened. There's going to be at least one major reason mentioned and as parents we need to know more about the why. Special programs and excellent teachers are sometimes lost forever from the system. My heart goes out to parents at those closing schools. It doesn't matter whether they are charter, public, or private, because it means student are being switched around somewhere in the State's educational system. It never good for a community to lose a school. Let's pay attention to what's going on around us.

Alert!!! 2009 Delaware DSTP Reports Arriving in Mail

2009-07-02T09:58:00.000-07:00

I just received individual student reports in the mail today, July 2. The performance level booklet was different from previous years. The Score Cut-off points was not broken down. There was no mention in the booklet about the Cut-offs. I did find 2008 cut-off scores at the link attached. The reason to know is that in the past if your student made a certain high score at performance level 5 , those students earned $1000.00 scholarships in 8th and 10th grades. Any parent with a student at level 5 or close to it, should be interested in boosting summer learning to get to the 5.
At the same time, any child with cut-offs right below the level 3 (Meets the standard) will be prudent to get a strategy in place at home to move the student away from the bottom of level 3. Especially in our city schools (Wilmington), the pressure is on with all the extra stimulus funds for higher achievement. This DSTP is just one indicator, but you can also look for the SAT 10 percentile on the DSTP report and figure out your child's standing.

PLEASE, under no circumstances do you want to wait until school starts in the fall to get your child on the right academic track. We are supposed to be producing life-long learners and critical thinkers for the 21st century.

Please, please, please, study the State Dept of Education website and find out what programs and options are in place in Delaware to help your child succeed. If you live in the city of Wilmington, your child does not have a neighborhood high school. There are few public middle schools in Wilmington. Therefore, you need to become familiar with the 3 public School Districts that cover the city. The trend right now is for more and more charter schools to open in Wilmington. If you are thinking about a public charter school anytime between k-12 grades, then please, review the history and these charter schools. Formal reviews, audits, etc, are mostly on the State websites. Please look up your charter school's public hearings at the State Board of Education Website. New charters that are opening have had public hearings and those minutes are on-line.

Please parents, we have to avoid the knowledge gap. When Marion T. Academy closed, parents stated they were unaware. Most of these parents were Black parents in the city of Wilmington. We must prepare our children for higher achievements. We have to find the information that we need. It's our own responsibility to find out what our child needs to succeed.

Barack Obama: 'We Need Fathers To Step Up' | Parade.com

2009-06-22T17:39:00.001-07:00

Barack Obama: 'We Need Fathers To Step Up' | Parade.com

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Fatherâs Day Turns 100, Rally Slated at Lincoln Memorial

2009-06-19T17:08:00.001-07:00

Fatherâs Day Turns 100, Rally Slated at Lincoln Memorial

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Harlem Children's Zone

2009-06-01T14:48:00.001-07:00

Geoffrey Canada Speech

Education Week: Study Links Teacher Movement to Influx of Black Students

2009-05-28T10:16:00.001-07:00

Education Week: Study Links Teacher Movement to Influx of Black Students

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Delaware School Profiles Updated Spring 2009

2009-05-20T15:10:00.000-07:00

Please everyone, remember to check out the Delaware Profiles for schools you are currently attending or planning to attend. Check out the State Rating. The Federal (NCLB) rating is not the same thing. If your school is Below Target and on Academic Watch on the state profile page, then there is a strong possibility that restructuring or closing will occur. For political reasons, it is hard to close a school in our size state. Just where are those children going to go?

I noticed that in the city of Wilmington there are 2 schools that are both below target and on academic watch with the state DOE. Based on DSTP scores coming in soon, I suppose their fate will become more obvious to us. One of these which looks like a possible closing is a charter school which is up for charter renewal in 2009-2010. Doesn't this bring back memories of Marion T Academy's fate. Their charter was also up for renewal with the same profile. Mark my words, history will repeat itself, unless we can all become very proactive city parents rallying around this school right now.

I see the handwriting on the wall. We don't have to wait for another school to be closed down before we say anything. Everyone connected with schools that are under any type of improvement plan has to become to become part of the solution. We can't lose hope in our public school system and let our kids down again. The State of Delaware will not keep pouring money into a disaster zone. Remember this is the age of ACCOUNTABILITY. The Obama Administration warned that they WILL CLOSE failing schools. Federal money will not come. Let's do something to help our fellow parents in the city before another closure happens right under our noses. get ready. If you will just look at the DOE School Profiles for Wilmington Schools, then you will see what I see and you will know. Wilmington schools with high percentages of African American children are at risk of all kinds of sanctions if the school does not start improving.

http://profiles.doe.k12.de.us/SchoolProfiles/State/Default.aspx

Please just do something to show that you care about our kids. It's our fault if we do not take time and read what is here for anyone to see. Please just read everything you can on the DOE website. Especially read the State School Board minutes. If you find that your school is on academic watch, then please find out if improvements are working or not. You can help.

Here we go again, a new superintendent in Christina School District

2009-05-20T09:59:00.000-07:00

I just don't get a good feeling about this choice of Dr. Lyles. When are we going to see someone heading the largest school district who will stay and finish the hard work? I would much prefer that Christina SD leave the city of Wilmington and set up their base of operations in Newark (where it came from) and let Red Clay and Brandywine tackle the City of Wilmington Education problem in peace. Remember, it was just about 2 years ago that CSD tried to cut a deal with Edison Charter so that they could close (get rid of) Elbert Palmer Elem. School. It would have happened if city parents had not went to court to stop it. Sorry, but I believe that RCCD and BSD are the only viable districts capable of making the necessary changes to move Wilmington families beyond this horrific Neighborhood Schools Act disaster. I hope Dr. Freeman will stay on as a Delaware educator. I wouldn't be surprised if he finds better career opportunities in nearby states. I am sorry he did not get an opportunity to finish his legacy here in Delaware. It seems we keep losing great educators to PA/NJ/MD.

Delaware Charter School Law

2009-05-19T11:30:00.000-07:00

Title 14

Black Parents....Wake Up!: Tips to Raising Smart Black Students in the 21st Century.

2009-05-18T11:51:00.000-07:00

Black Parents....Wake Up!: Tips to Raising Smart Black Students in the 21st Century.

Mis-Understanding "School Choice"

2009-05-18T09:22:00.001-07:00

If your children want to learn and you are an involved parent, your children will be just fine anywhere. Unfortunately this is not reality. Perhaps we need to find out more about the process of school choice in New Castle County public schools in 2009. Overcrowded schools are popping up all over the county. Three new charter schools were approved by the State Board of Ed recently. All three on are in NCC. The choices are both expanding and narrowing. Consider the educational needs of the 21st century and notice some schools are meeting the challenge and some are just not doing it right. As parents, we must make the best choice for our children.

When it's done right it works

2009-05-18T07:56:00.000-07:00

Listen to insightful dialogue among 3 educators.

PBS Program - Making Schools Work

2009-05-14T01:47:00.000-07:00

PBS examined inner-city schools doing great things and closing the achievement gap. Here's the link.

Importance of Voting in Local School Board Elections

2009-05-13T10:29:00.000-07:00

The candidates that I voted for in Christina School District won today. I think voter turnout in among city residents was low. No one was waiting in line when I voted at 7:30 at Bayard Middle School. My votes went to John Young, and Elizabeth Sheinberg because I agreed with their stand on most issues. Even though I am a Edison Charter School parent, I do live and vote in Christina School District. I pay attention to what is going on in the school system for my address. I read their e-newsletters. We left the district school after 1st grade and now we're up to the 7th grade, we don't know if we may choose to go back. With the possible consolidation of 3 city districts to 2 districts, re-districting issues and possible new charter schools each year, we could very well end up a Christina High School. If you live in the city of Wilmington, then please keep this in mind - you DO NOT have a feeder High School in the city of Wilmington. You will have TO CHOOSE a high school. You need to know about the challenges in going on in public cityss schools. This is your reality. Regardless of your income, if you live in the inner-city of Wilmington, Delaware, then you do not have a feeder public high school. Please pay attention and learn about how the school boards so that you will not be clueless when your child reaches 8th grade and the H.S. issue is in your face. Be proactive and keep up with what is going on with the 4 school districts in NCC before you choose one district. You may skip from school to school in elementary, and perhaps middle school, but I warn you that is not is your child's best interest in the high school years. You need to stay in one school and be an advocate for your child's education. Don't skip around from school to school. Check out what other parents and teachers are saying about their experiences in different schools and districts. Don't let your child become a H.S. drop-out from Wilmington. We must keep our kids on the pathway to success. We can make a difference. As Black parents in Wilmington, we can do this.

Free Regal Movies Schedule Out

2009-05-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking about Summer Family Fun. Many of these movies are related to books - like Horton Hears a Who and Charlotte's Web. They may supplement your summer reading and it's a cool break to take.

Develop a love for learning

2009-05-10T22:42:00.000-07:00

This will enlighten parents. It's a 1992 interview on YOUTUBE. Barbara Jordan speaks straight-talk about what it takes to pursue a career. Her words are truly motivational, especially to Black parents.

Freedom's Sisters-Honoring 20 African American Women

2009-05-10T21:55:00.000-07:00

This is an important exhibit which is traveling around the country for 3 years. We need to study these extraordinary women.

Playing Their Parts

2009-05-10T14:14:00.000-07:00

A MUST READ! This is hands-down one of the best report I have ever read about parent involvement. This should be required reading for all parents at the beginning of the school year.

Wall Street Journal Opinion - Parents Can Fix Education

2009-05-10T14:06:00.000-07:00

Read about how this parent made a difference.

Dialogic: Richard Rothstein, Rebecca Jacobsen, and Tamara Wilder: Grading Education Test-Based Accountability Can’t Work, But Testing Plus Careful...

2009-05-10T12:59:00.000-07:00

Dialogic: Richard Rothstein, Rebecca Jacobsen, and Tamara Wilder: Grading Education Test-Based Accountability Can’t Work, But Testing Plus Careful...

Student Self-Esteem

2009-05-07T09:02:00.000-07:00

I will post a variety of video which will help you understand the process of educational success for your child. The first video is a workshop is by Jawanza Kunjufu.