Will Your Youth Commemorate Black History Month?

Over the last few years, I’ve heard many arguments about whether there is still a need for Black History Month.  The other argument is whether Black History Month creates separatism instead of ethnic pride.  We don’t need Black History Month when have a Black family in the White House right?  I disagree.  I am of the opinion that until the diverse stories of African Americans are interwoven into the fabric of our lives and integrated seamlessly into our school curriculums Black History Month is absolutely relevant.  For African American youth in the foster care system who may not have strong family ties or may not know their family at all, learning about the contributions made by people of the same race can be empowering.  I dare say it can help them form a sense of identity and self-worth.

Why Should I Stay In School?

In his 2012 State of the Union address, President Obama asked states to consider increasing the minimum age for a student to leave school to 18. How do we keep youth engaged and motivated?  Teens are unique and their educational experiences should be unique as well.  The cookie cutter approach to education leads to our teens dropping out of school or graduating from high school unprepared for higher education or the workforce.  The “old way” of teaching is driving our national education reform efforts.

According to the Alliance for Excellent Education, high school drop outs from the class of 2006-2007 will cost the US more than $329 million in lost wages, taxes, and productivity over their lifetime because those who drop out are more likely to be incarcerated, rely on public programs and social services, and go without health insurance than those who graduate from high school.  A college education may not be for everyone but graduation from high school is a MUST.