“In the early ‘90s, Central Heights was the type of neighborhood where you would get off the school bus, do your homework, and come to the park to play ball until the street lights came on. It was a tough neighborhood, with rivalries and occasional … Continue readingTIE program sets positive course for young men
“My first experiences with sexism were within my own family. “I’m the only girl. I have five brothers. I had a Christian upbringing. I’m still a Christian. But my father would use the Bible to kind of diminish my voice. He would say, ‘In the … Continue readingSituation at home spurs her to excel
“I was really young when I had my boys. I got pregnant at 12, and I was 15 when I had the second one. Basically, I was raising my babies while I was still a baby. I raised them while going to school. It was … Continue readingYoung mother proud of sons and herself
“I went walking today, and I found this beat-up basketball over there in the grass. I thought, I may as well see if I can still shoot. “I played sports in high school, basketball and football. It’s been a while, though. I’m 56. I didn’t … Continue reading‘I’m moving parts that haven’t moved in years’
“I have a personality that’s kind of funny. It’s like, I could have everything, and I still wouldn’t be happy about it. I’m always wanting more. I think my worst fear is just being average. “When I was in elementary school, I was in what … Continue reading‘I think my worst fear is just being average’
“At the beginning of 2020, I was excited to be in the last semester for my doctorate at Houston Baptist University. I was finalizing my dissertation to present in March after spring break, and looking forward to graduating in May. Then, during spring break, COVID-19 … Continue readingCOVID-19 can’t stop doctorate dreams
“About two years ago, I decided to go get my bachelor’s degree in special education. I thought it was a good match for me and where my heart is for these kids. But I wouldn’t have done it if not for my youngest son. “When … Continue readingSon inspires her to pursue college degree
“When I was in college studying to become a teacher, it was more about making lesson plans and basic things like that. We didn’t have our own students that we were measuring for progress and continuously assessing. When you get your own classroom, you find … Continue readingShe discovers the realities of being a teacher
“In the same way that physical education is mandated in schools, I would like to see mental health education become a policy in schools as well. I would love for every single person who steps onto a school campus — students and staff alike — … Continue readingMental health education needed in schools
“I was a newcomer teacher. I taught high school students who were just coming to this country and learning English. But it was much more than teaching them English. It was creating a community of belongingness for these new Americans, many of whom didn’t have … Continue readingWellness counselor helps traumatized community