A place for educators to find thought-provoking news, conversation and support for those who care about diversity, equal opportunity and respect for differences in schools
The Absolutely True Confessions of an Intellectual Stalker, Part I
I have a confession to make. I’m an “intellectual stalker.” Let me explain. In her recent book “White Heat,” author Brenda Wineapple quotes Emily Dickinson in a letter addressed to Thomas Wentworth Higginson. “Are you too occupied to tell me if my verse is alive?” Dickinson asked. The poet was coyly asking Higginson for his literary advice. She wanted him to acknowledge whether or not she had anything to offer. At the time, Higginson was the more famous writer.
Single-Gender Education: Why the Rush?
A couple of years ago, my wife casually mentioned that our son’s school in Chattanooga, Tennessee, would be introducing some single-sex classes. I was surprised because I thought any type of segregation was illegal. But after a little research, I found that a sexual revolution has been brewing in our public schools.
‘Usually Offensive’
red·skin \ˈred-ˌskin\
(noun) usually offensive : American Indian
Note the “usually offensive” — a warning from one of the more neutral arbitrators of American English, Merriam-Webster. “Redskin” is a pejorative term, and should be used with caution, if at all.
Lesbian Teen Wins Prom Equality
Many gays and lesbians feel understandably frustrated right now. The U.S. military’s “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy has yet to be repealed. And over the last 13 months, voters have approved gay marriage bans in Arizona, California, Florida and Maine.
Cheers for Mix It Up Day
When the start of Mix It Up at Lunch Day was announced at Seth Johnson Elementary in Montgomery, Ala., cheers rose up in the halls. At lunch, the fifth-grade class – leaders of this year’s activities – proudly displayed the banner they created for the event.
Mix It Up: Score One for Humanity
Two truths and one lie.
That’s how Mix It Up at Lunch Day began at Fordson High School in Dearborn, Mich. Students sat down to lunch with people who were not in their usual social circle. As an icebreaker, students played a game in which one person told two truths and one lie: the rest of the group had to guess which statement was false.
Creating Unity at Lawndale
As you know, many schools in Los Angeles have dealt with racial tensions, race riots, and violence on campus stemming from issues of race and misunderstanding.
How Clique Leaders Can Help You Mix It Up
Mix It Up at Lunch Day is just around the corner. Most students report that the Mix It Up experience – taking one lunch hour to sit somewhere new and make friends – is a positive experience that helps reduce tension across social boundaries. Sometimes, though, students are reluctant to participate.
Our new guide, 
