By Toter

by Toter - 2 months ago

100 Days of Turmoil vs. 100 Days of Defiance: A Clash of Resilience

Trump aims to instill a sense of despair, hoping to solidify his oppressive agenda unchallenged. Without intervention, his authoritarian vision risks becoming reality. Yet, consistent pushback, notably from those wielding influence, diminishes the chances of his plans succeeding. The tumultuous firs...

by Toter - 2 months ago

Legislature Unveils Exciting New Testing Reforms

In the early hours of April 30, I joined fellow superintendents to advocate for House Bill 4, a transformative measure poised to restore confidence in Texas’ accountability framework. My decades in education reveal the pitfalls of high-stakes testing. CSHB 4 eliminates STAAR, shifting to a progress...

by Toter - 2 months ago

Embracing Transformation: Understanding the Essence of Meaningful Change!

After Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced significant reforms within the State Department, including the elimination of 132 bureaus and the dismantling of USAID, Congresswoman Maxine Waters responded with concern. She argued these changes undermine U.S. global leadership, particularly in Sub-Sa...

by Toter - 2 months ago

How the Black Church Influences Today's Social Movements

Historians may find it increasingly challenging to articulate the gradual undermining of civil rights that were once staunchly upheld. During President Trump’s second term, vital appointments within the Justice Department have sidelined committed public servants. The withdrawal from voting rights c...

by Toter - 2 months ago

Texas Teachers Urge Senate to Make Public School Funding a Top Priority

The Texas American Federation of Teachers (Texas AFT) called on Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and K-16 Chairman Brandon Creighton to prioritize a hearing for House Bill 2, aimed at reforming school finance. Texas AFT President Zeph Capo warned that without swift legislative intervention, impending layoffs an...

by Toter - 2 months ago

Celebrating Educators: A Heartfelt Tribute to Our Inspiring Teachers

“Teaching children might be the noblest path to divine connection, yet it carries an immense burden of responsibility,” reflected Gabriela Mistral, Chilean Nobel Laureate. This Teacher Appreciation Week highlights our educators amid challenges to the Department of Education. Millions of students rel...

by Toter - 2 months ago

The Silence of the Songbirds: Understanding a Natural Phenomenon

In California, where I spent my childhood, dawns once resonated with the cheerful calls of finches and sparrows—sounds now fading into silence. A recent study reveals a staggering three-quarters of 500 North American bird species are declining, signaling an urgent human-made crisis.We're destroying...

by Toter - 2 months ago

Exploring the Challenges Women Face: What More Could Happen?

For years, I’ve asserted, “Our struggles pave the path to victories,” yet I question when the trials for women will cease. Recent events have highlighted ongoing challenges, particularly for women of color. A tragic case in Georgia showcases the impossibility of healing amidst invasive laws, as a w...