As the short-sighted GOP legislators in North Carolina continue to dismantle public education and undervalue teachers, I carry on my fight to advocate for public schools. I spend a lot of time in schools and with kids. Volunteering in my son's classroom is the highlight of my … [Read more...] about What Matters to Kids Today Part II
North Carolina
(More) Gun Safety Shenanigans in the State House
Have we become inured to or outraged by the daily reports of children killed by guns left unattended by adults? "Overall, the C.D.C. numbers indicate that gun deaths are trending somewhat upward as motor vehicle deaths continue on a steady decline, thanks in large … [Read more...] about (More) Gun Safety Shenanigans in the State House
Come to North Carolina
If North Carolina had a state vehicle, it would be a hand basket. And we're on the highway to hell. North Carolina has been in the national spotlight plenty of times, and I'm not talking about basketball. We have a GOP-run legislature emboldened by its Pope and Koch ties. They … [Read more...] about Come to North Carolina
All Winter in a Day
Ray Bradbury wrote All Summer in a Day, a book that has haunted me since I first read it as a kid. It's the penultimate story of bullying and life as an outsider. I've sympathized with Margot, the main character, and continue to feel pangs of the pain and injustice Bradbury … [Read more...] about All Winter in a Day
I Don’t Care What My School’s Grade Is
Spotted at a school I visited in Kampala, Uganda. They get it. We should, too. Thursdays are my favorite day of the week. I get to spend time in Deal's fourth grade class to help with writing. I get hugs and singsong accolades before I even step over the threshold. Even my dog … [Read more...] about I Don’t Care What My School’s Grade Is
Handmade in NC – City of Raleigh Museum & The Pope House
Sometimes North Carolina gets pummeled in the news. Don't be fooled. We are not a state moving backwards. We are, in fact, a state that is looking backwards to understand what's shaped us and better grasp what is to come. Nothing captures the essence of … [Read more...] about Handmade in NC – City of Raleigh Museum & The Pope House
Handmade in NC – Claire Ashby
I'm not one to go gaga for Valentine's Day. One time someone gave me sweatpants as a Valentine's present. You know, the thick sweatshirt material kind with elastic at the ankles. Um, yeah. I suppose that experience soured me on the whole treacly Valentine's "holiday." You should … [Read more...] about Handmade in NC – Claire Ashby