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How the (Dr. Cornel) West Was Won

Cornel West, distinguished professor in the Princeton Center for African American Studies, and author of bestsellers such as Race Matters (Vintage, 1994) Democracy Matters: Winning the Fight Against Imperialism (Penguin, 2004) and Keeping Faith: Philosophy and Faith in America (Routledge, 1994),has a new memoir, Brother West: Living and Loving Out Loud (Smiley Books) in stores now. In it, West describes his journey from “Mama’s child and daddy’s kid” to being one of the preeminent sociologists working today.

In Part 1 of this two-part interview, I sat down with West recently to talk art, politics, the first black President, as well as a memorable New York meeting between West, education activist Geoffrey Canada and Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter. We tried to stick to business, but ended up discussing Curtis Mayfield, Nina Simone, James Brown, Mahalia Jackson, Aretha Franklin, KRS-One and the O’Jays. At least Dr. West didn’t rap.

First Lady Michelle Obama Speaks on Healthy Eating and Obesity to HHS

First Lady Michelle Obama Speaks on Healthy Eating and Obesity to HHS:

"There’s a smart debate going around the internet on food policy, the pleasure principle, and the role that first lady Michelle Obama can play in curbing the obesity epidemic that has swept the United States in recent decades. Obama made a big speech addressing the matter at the Department of Health and Human Services this week.

Her remarks—like her entire approach to food policy since moving to Washington—were casual, yet insistent, speaking not just to the federal employees but to all working families:

[M]any families are starting to feel like the cards are stacked against them. It's really hard to make sure that your children are healthy and happy and safe and well fed. And maybe it's because some of -- some folks are working on a tight budget, and they feel like they just can't afford the kind of nutritious foods that are being recommended. Maybe it's because folks are working long hours. Can I get an 'Amen' from HHS?"

USMayortime with Tom Cochran featuring Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson 10/26/2009 - Tom Cochran on Blog Talk Radio

USMayortime with Tom Cochran featuring Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson 10/26/2009 - Tom Cochran on Blog Talk Radio:

"Call-in Number: (347) 327-9924

Upcoming Show: 10/26/2009 1:30 PM

Host Name: Tom Cochran

Show Name: USMayortime with Tom Cochran featuring Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson

Length: 30 min

Description:
This show will feature Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson who will be discussing his focus on education, homelessness, and flood protection in cities. Listeners will also learn about the challenges of being a state capital city, as well as how Mayor Johnson’s mayoral life differs from his career as a former NBA player."

Listen to Tom Cochran on Blog Talk Radio

Fox News' Hemmer latest to advance made-up charge that Jennings knew of "statutory rape" case and "never reported it" | Media Matters for America

Fox News' Hemmer latest to advance made-up charge that Jennings knew of "statutory rape" case and "never reported it" Media Matters for America:

"Fox News' Bill Hemmer continued his network's attacks on Department of Education official Kevin Jennings by claiming that Jennings knew of a 'statutory rape' case involving a student but 'never reported it.' However, Hemmer ignored that Jennings' attorney wrote in a 2004 letter that the student was 16 years old, which Jennings' book appears to support, and that 16 is -- and was at the time -- the legal age of consent in Massachusetts."

Steve Barr's Answers for School Reform | Edutopia

Steve Barr's Answers for School Reform Edutopia:

"This might be the moment for Green Dot founder Steve Barr.

The Obama administration has set a goal of turning around 5,000 failing schools in the next five years, supported by an expected $3 billion in stimulus funds and $2 billion in the 2009 and 2010 budgets. Known in education circles and beyond as an aggressive agent of change, Barr has been in talks with Secretary of Education Arne Duncan about how to boost failing schools and whether Green Dot's methods can serve as a blueprint for fixing schools across the country.

It was these same failing schools that inspired Barr to start Green Dot. Having known hard times in his youth, including some time as a foster child, Barr was drawn to improving schools for disenfranchised youth."

Perfection may be President Obama's biggest flaw

Perfection may be President Obama's biggest flaw:

"If, as the saying goes, the perfect is the enemy of the good, then Barack Obama is his own worst enemy. That becomes clear in the upcoming HBO documentary 'By the People: The Election of Barack Obama,' which is the product of many months of behind-the-scenes access to Obama during the presidential campaign. It reveals that Barack Obama is pretty close to the most perfect person you will never get to know.

This is what he does not do in the course of the primary and general election campaigns: He does not lose his temper. He does not curse. He does not follow a pretty woman with his eyes or sneak a smoke. He does not dress sloppily. He is always calm and always good-natured and gets emotional only once - the day his grandmother, Madelyn Dunham, the woman who in effect raised him, died in Hawaii. At a campaign event in North Carolina, he expressed his love and gratitude. He cried and, watching, I did, too."

Pleasing Wall Street is a Poor Excuse for Bad Decisions - Is the U.S. Killing Its Innovation Machine? - Harvard Business Review

Pleasing Wall Street is a Poor Excuse for Bad Decisions - Is the U.S. Killing Its Innovation Machine? - Harvard Business Review:

"Outsourcing, in and of itself, isn't responsible for the erosion of America's high tech infrastructure. The short-term thinking that led to a lot of bad outsourcing decisions is the root cause. And short-term thinking isn't a problem confined to the executive suite. It's a problem in Washington and in our society as a whole.

Managers who focus on maximizing short-term profits end up driving out things that generate long-term value — like R&D. They use all sorts of excuses when they make those decisions, including the need to please Wall Street and create shareholder value. But they're just excuses for poor thinking."

Bee argues for disclosure of public service pensions - Local - Modbee.com

Bee argues for disclosure of public service pensions - Local - Modbee.com:

"Attorneys made their arguments Tuesday in The Bee's lawsuit seeking information about the most lucrative public service pensions in Stanislaus County.

The newspaper filed the lawsuit in August after the Stanislaus County Employees' Retirement Association refused a Public Records Act request to disclose the names of retirees receiving more than $100,000 a year. The California Newspaper Publishers Association joined the lawsuit in Stanislaus County Superior Court.
StanCERA manages a pension system for employees of the county, Ceres, the courts and five special districts.

Judge Hurl Johnson presided over Tuesday's hearing and has 90 days to release a decision.
In recent times, public service pension funds such as the California Public Employees Retirement System, the State Teachers' Retirement System and many county associations have agreed to release information about top pensioners."

Sacramento Press / Mayor Johnson - Driving Under the Influence

Sacramento Press / Mayor Johnson - Driving Under the Influence:

"'People ask the difference between a leader and a boss. The leader works in the open, and the boss in covert. The leader leads, and the boss drives.' -- Theodore Roosevelt --
I would love to give Mayor Kevin Johnson the benefit of the doubt and call him a leader. But as time goes by, I see less of a leader and more of a driver.

Heck, with lessons, anyone can drive. With a GPS navigation system of special assistants, a campaign manager, volunteers and a spokesperson it certainly may appear the mayor is leading the way. But even with GPS and a car full of backseat drivers, people have gotten lost."

Parents More Comfortable Talking Drugs Than Science | Reuters

Parents More Comfortable Talking Drugs Than Science Reuters:

"Intel Survey Reveals Majority of Parents of Teens Find It Difficult to Help
Their Kids With Math and Science

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(Business Wire)--
NEWS HIGHLIGHTS:

* The News: A recent Intel Corporation survey found that parents feel more
equipped to talk about drug abuse than math and science with their children.
* The Context: Despite a perceived importance of math and science for success,
and an overwhelming willingness to be involved, the survey results reveal that
parents, particularly those of teenagers, often find themselves with little more
understanding of these subjects than their children and without the necessary
resources to bridge this gap.

* Why It Matters: A strong background in math and science is increasingly
critical for American prosperity, security, health, environment and quality of
life. And yet, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress
report released last week, less than 40 percent of fourth- and eighth-graders
are proficient in math. Intel believes that to better engage America`s future
innovators, we need to understand and appreciate the role that parents play in
education and help them inspire their children to take an interest in math and
science."

5 US Children Die From Child Abuse Each Day - Family News Story - WSB Atlanta

5 US Children Die From Child Abuse Each Day - Family News Story - WSB Atlanta:

"A new report shows that child abuse and neglect kill more children in the United States than in any other industrialized nation -- five every day.

Deaths By State Faces Of Child Abuse

Every Child Matters Education Fund President Michael Petit wrote that the report should be a wake-up call.

'This is a report sure to sadden -- and perhaps to anger. How could it be otherwise when we look at the innocent faces of children whose lives were cut short by abuse or neglect?' wrote Petit.

The report, We Can Do Better: Child Abuse and Neglect Deaths in America, was released by the Every Child Matters Education Fund. It found that at least 10,440 American children died from abuse or neglect between 2001 and 2007. The report noted that the number of children killed could top 15,660, but poor record keeping could have missed many deaths."

Full Report:

http://www.docstoc.com/docs/13504113/We-Can-Do-BetterChild-Abuse-and-Neglect-Deaths-in-America

Latino in America: Parent and Teacher Discussion Guide - CNN.com

Latino in America: Parent and Teacher Discussion Guide - CNN.com:

"Teachers and Parents: Watch with your students or record 'Latino in America' when it airs on CNN on Wednesday, October 21 at 9 p.m. EDT and Thursday, October 22 at 9 p.m. EDT. By recording the documentaries, you agree that you will use the documentaries for educational viewing purposes for a one-year period only. No other rights of any kind or nature whatsoever are granted, including, without limitation, any rights to sell, publish, distribute, post online or distribute in any other medium or forum, or use for any commercial or promotional purpose.

(CNN Student News) -- We strongly urge teachers and parents to preview this program before showing it to students. The program contains content, language and accounts that may not be appropriate for some students.

Program Description: The Latino population, now America's largest minority, is set to nearly triple by 2050. In fact, the U.S. now has the highest Latino population after Mexico. Their sheer numbers are shaking up America, reshaping schools, churches and neighborhoods and forcing a nation of immigrants to rediscover what it means to be an American. For two nights, CNN's Soledad O'Brien journeys into the homes and hearts of a minority group destined to change America. Is it the ultimate clash of cultures, or the ultimate melting pot? Witness the evolution of a country as Latinos remake America, and in return, America remakes them. Before and after viewing these programs, use our free Discussion Questions and Learning Activities to facilitate a conversation with your students."

theleafchronicle.com | The Leaf-Chronicle | Clarksville and Fort Campbell news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Clarksville, TN

theleafchronicle.com The Leaf-Chronicle Clarksville and Fort Campbell news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Clarksville, TN:

"Report cards go paperless, School system's robust use of technology helps parents"

Here's a truism of the Internet Age: Time and technology change everything.

So it is with the venerable tradition of the student report card. On Friday, the Clarksville-Montgomery School System will deliver first quarter marks primarily by computer, using the system's Web site and an interactive set of communication tools known as PowerSchool.

Many of us will recall the dutiful carrying home of grades as our first real brush with accountability. We handed them over to mom or dad or guardian with fear or pride, took our punishment or reward, and promised to keep up the good work or to get down to business and improve.

Today, however, schools are going paperless, sharing more information with students and parents via the Internet.

The intimate moment of handing over the report card may be lost forever, along with the charm of a keepsake written artifact carefully prepared by a teacher's hand, but we have to agree with the school system's increasing use of Web-based tools.

‘No Trust’ In DCPS Contract Talks: Loose Lips Daily - City Desk - Washington City Paper

‘No Trust’ In DCPS Contract Talks: Loose Lips Daily - City Desk - Washington City Paper:

"As much local politics as humanly possible. Send your tips, releases, stories, events, etc. to lips@washingtoncitypaper.com. And get LL Daily sent straight to your inbox every morning!

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT—’Is DCPS Continuing to Hire Teachers After Firing 229?‘

Morning all. Surprise, surprise: There’s been no movement on teachers’ contract negotiations for a month, says a WaPo report by Bill Turque. The Oct. 2 layoffs of 229 teachers have brought the nearly two-year process ‘to another standstill,’ he writes. ‘The two sides have not met face to face since Sept. 21, and no bargaining sessions are scheduled.’ WTU President George Parker says his ‘number one priority’ is reversing the layoffs, saying ‘I feel a little indifferent to contract negotiations right now.’ Adds AFT’s Randi Weingarten, ‘There is no trust right now.’

Michelle Rhee’s take: ‘These talks have been at a standstill for two years.’"

Colorado Independent » Shriver Report documents advances but also persisting gender inequalities

Colorado Independent » Shriver Report documents advances but also persisting gender inequalities:

"In a clear-eyed reading of the Shriver Report on U.S. work and family life released this week, former Colorado Independent editor Wendy Norris says the glaring gender inequalities it documents speak at least as loudly as the advances it celebrates. Personal views about gender may have moved toward greater equality, says Norris, but these views have failed to alter policy in the private sector as well as at public institutions. This fact “continues to perpetuate unfair work practices” that create “barriers to true equality between men and women and seriously compromise women’s health.”

The “Shriver Report: A Woman’s Nation Changes Everything” was initiated by California First Lady Maria Shriver and was published after a year of research by the Center for American Progress. It has already generated celebratory media coverage on women’s professional advances, and Shriver has embarked on a media blitz since its publication, including appearing on Meet the Press this past weekend and guest editing an MSNBC blog.

Workplace advances are great and all, says Norris,"

China Education Technology Designed a New Generation of Data Collector and Sensor | Reuters

China Education Technology Designed a New Generation of Data Collector and Sensor Reuters:

"GUANGZHOU, China--(Business Wire)--
China Education Technology Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CEDT) ('CEDT'), a Chinese
leader in school lab experiment products, announced it had designed a new
generation of data collector and sensor, and was now applying for 4 utility
model patents, 5 design patents, 2 software copyrights. The new generation of
product is made to improve diversity and accuracy.

'Our products have always been widely recognized by clients,' said Yanbin Guo,
'I believe the new generation will also be quite welcome by the market.'

The newly developed product is specially designed to be in conformity to the new
standard of experimental classes of science courses in China and will mainly be
used by students of grade 7-12. The system uses the advanced technology of data
collection, sensor, wireless control and video image with handy appearance.
There are two secondary schools in Beijing which have the intention to adopt the
lab experiment products in the near future. And they will be fully promoted in
Beijing thereafter. This may bring $7.4 million (RMB 50 million Yuan) of sales
for CEDT with a profit of $2.2 million (RMB 15 million Yuan) in the next two
years. As the only company who`s subsidized by the State Science and Technology,
CEDT has the overwhelming leadership in the industry."

Lamar Alexander to Barack Obama: No 'enemies list' - Mike Allen - POLITICO.com

Lamar Alexander to Barack Obama: No 'enemies list' - Mike Allen - POLITICO.com:

"Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) accused the White House on Wednesday of 'street-brawling' with opponents, and said the West Wing's strategy of freezing out opponents amounts to a latter-day 'enemies list,' a reference to an infamous practice of President Richard Nixon.

'An 'enemies list' only denigrates the Presidency and the Republic itself,' Alexander said on the Senate floor. 'These are unusually difficult times, with plenty of forces encouraging us to disagree. Let’s not start calling people out and compiling an enemies list. Let’s push the street-brawling out of the White House and work together on the truly presidential issues: creating jobs, reducing health care costs, reducing the debt, creating clean energy.'

Alexander quoted from a POLITICO article headlined 'White House plan: Neuter the Chamber.'"

New Thinking, New Models, New Approaches Lead to Improved High School Graduation Rates, Increased Opportunities For Students Often Left Behind

New Thinking, New Models, New Approaches Lead to Improved High School Graduation Rates, Increased Opportunities For Students Often Left Behind

Washington, DC (Vocus/PRWEB ) October 21, 2009 -- A student-centered curriculum, close relationships with teachers, and real-world internships are the hallmarks of a education model that can best serve students most at risk of dropping out, according to a panel of researchers, students, and education reform advocates currently on the front lines of the school improvement and innovation efforts.

Big Picture Learning hosted a Washington event yesterday presenting the non-profit’s research-proven approaches for boosting high school graduation and postsecondary enrollment rates. Participants in Big Picture Learning’s “Disruptive Innovation” Summit provided tested solutions for helping policymakers ensure all young people, especially those most at risk, gain access to the pathways toward meaningful high school diplomas and life opportunities.

“With the U.S. Department of Education focusing on research-based innovations to school improvement and educational opportunity, we must ensure we are providing real, relevant solutions to all students, particularly those from historically disadvantaged groups,” said Dennis Littky, co-founder of Big Picture Learning. “For more than a decade, we have worked with school leaders to provide the innovation necessary to have a lasting impact for the students who traditionally struggle in the traditional education model.”
Big Picture Learning currently works with more than 130 schools across the globe, helping school leaders adopt a new school model that focuses on small schools, close relationships with students and advisors, individualized curricula based on student interests, relevant and extensive student internships, and a requirement that every student take college entrance exams. In 2006-2007, Big Picture schools achieved a 92 percent graduation rate (compared with 52 percent nationally), with 95 percent of all Big Picture students accepted into college. More than eight in 10 Big Picture schools receive federal Title I funding, while 66 percent of students are eligible for free/reduced lunch. The Gates Foundation regularly recognizes Big Picture Learning for its leadership in high school reform.

The hidden costs of the bailout - SigTARP Barofsky - Oct. 21, 2009

The hidden costs of the bailout - SigTARP Barofsky - Oct. 21, 2009:

"NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- The $700 billion bailout will ultimately cost taxpayers billions of dollars, but the government stands to lose much more than the money it's pouring into companies.

Neil Barofsky, special inspector general for Treasury's financial sector rescue, wrote in a report released Wednesday that the bailout has several hidden costs.

One is the hard cost of borrowing money to fund the rescues of banks and other companies. The others are, according to Barofsky, less tangible but no less important: The danger that comes with rewarding companies that took excessive risk, and the loss of the government's credibility with taxpayers."

Facebook, MySpace Divide Along Social Lines : NPR

Facebook, MySpace Divide Along Social Lines : NPR:

"Talk to students at The Urban School, an elite private high school in San Francisco, and they will tell you that they used to be on MySpace, but not anymore. Facebook is where it's at for them and their friends.

Facebook is taking over more and more of the social networking space in the U.S. It had an estimated 95.5 million U.S. visitors in September, according to marketing research company comScore. MySpace still has a healthy share — around 65.7 million people — but numbers don't explain it all. If you listen to young site users explain their social networking decisions, the story of the two sites gets more complicated."