Everyone, whatever their age or background, can remember at least one wonderful teacher who made a difference for good in their lives.
Teachers work hard to make children comfortable, challenged, and part of a community of learning.
In these troubling times, schools have fed students, set up peanut-free tables for the allergic, introduced buddy benches for the shy, and tried to see the whole child.
They have done double and triple duty to fill in for sick teachers and kept school going.
Some people mistakenly believe that factual history makes students feel bad about themselves. But children understand both justice and injustice; they happen in plain sight.
An honest look at slavery engages children’s empathy.
Whether you’re a troubled teenager, an old lady, a struggling single mom, a brilliant nerd, or anyone else, it’s reassuring to find someone like you in books. Children of color are discouraged when their history is ignored.
Let’s make sure that our children are taught our true history so that they grow to be devoted to justice and knowledge, not ignorance and untruth.
Jill Grubb
Gambier, Ohio
