Mashea Ashton Talks Newark, Cory Booker and the Challenges of Launching Her Own School

Mashea Ashton tells the truth, even when it’s hard. Almost three years ago, when she moved to Washington, D.C., to be closer to family, she…

DeVos Will Recommend the Removal of Civil Rights Protections for Students of Color

Any day now we’re going to hear the news that Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos and the Trump administration are removing guidance meant to reduce…

I’m an Immigrant and a Student and My Voice Matters

When I was about 7 years old, I immigrated to the United States from Mexico. It was 2008 and I arrived in New York City…

I’ve Educated All Over North America and Now I’m Bringing That Experience to My Own Los Angeles School

Growing up it was difficult to escape discussions about education. Whether it was homework projects at the time or the future investments in my college…

Why Is It So Hard for Baby Boomers to Volunteer at Our Local Schools?

“We urge more of our fellow New Yorkers to impact the lives of others through service.”—New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio. Leaders across the…

Teachers Deserve School Choice Too

Social media has changed the way we see and interact with the world. For many, friends and follower lists are filled by those with whom…

My Sister’s Battle With Severe Mental Illness Taught Me Never to Stand for Pretense

My parents, Jerry and Emily, had three daughters. I’m the oldest, followed by Carla two years later, and then my youngest sister. Carla, I’m told,…

Educators Take Center Stage at Betsy DeVos’ Summit on School Discipline

Betsy DeVos, the secretary of education, hosted a summit yesterday on school safety and climate so that she could hear from people—including educators—who have been…

My Son Has Autism and This School Taught Him to Say ‘Mom’

At 5, my son, Niko, was still in diapers. He didn’t know how to communicate. He wouldn’t let anyone touch him. I was afraid for…

Washington Still Hasn’t Gotten the Message That Our Schools Need Restorative Practices

Thousands of students have walked out of classrooms and marched on Washington to send a message on gun violence. Message not received. Instead of listening…