We Can’t Let Our Love For Our Students Morph Into Low Academic Expectations

I remember the day like it was yesterday. The year was 2013 and I was in the oval office with President Obama to receive an…

The ELL Population Is Growing, But Where Are the Teachers to Help Them Excel?

Your first year of teaching isn’t usually filled with victories, but I’ll never forget the brightest moment of mine. It was a Friday in early…

One HBCU and One Black-Led Charter School Team Up to Ensure Success for Rural Students of Color

Crossroad Academy Charter School in Quincy, Florida, defies expectations. More than 90% of the school’s 530 students are Black or Hispanic, more than two-thirds qualify…

Black and Brown Students Can Learn, But You Have to Want to Teach Them

We complain about what’s wrong with the public education system all the time. Admittedly, I’m probably on the long list of tough critics.  Some of…

Teachers, If You Want a Say in What Happens at Your School, You Have to Speak Out

Welcome to a new school year! Amidst the busyness of planning and preparing, remember to take a step back and reflect on how you want…

I Hate to Inform You, but Not Everyone Is Above Average in Wobegon

Wherever you live, there is a high probability that Minnesota is low-key superior to your state.  We are the safest state in America, we have…

Families Are the ‘Sleeping Giant’ That Will Redefine Education

It’s no surprise that I work in education. It’s in my blood. My grandmother Alberta, a proud Chicana, lived in the projects in downtown Denver…

A Charter School Gave My Son Opportunity. Isn’t That What Democrats Should Stand For?

Tonight, the Democratic candidates for president will hold yet another debate, and likely, say very little about education. That’s why I rallied last night with…

Here’s Why We Must Open Schools to Authentic Parent Partnership

When I taught first grade on the Navajo Nation, I’ll never forget when one of my fellow teachers—now my wife—wanted to host an event that…

A Charter School Helped Me Achieve My Dreams, And Now My Kids Are Achieving Theirs, Too

I was born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico, by my Mexican-American mother. Since my mother is American, I inherited American citizenship. But at the age…