October 15th, 2024

Booker T. Washington High School RS Deer Ranch Retreat

By Jennifer Charles
Booker T. Washington, High School Teacher Specialist

Students and staff at Booker T. Washington High School recently chose to partake in an experiential learning exercise offered by RS Deer Ranch. Roy Douglas and Shirley Ann Malonson, the owners, did not disappoint, providing real life lessons in entrepreneurship, community reinvestment, philanthropy, and practical application of the agricultural, construction, and engineering curriculum taught at Washington High.

Learning through experience, or experiential learning, is a theory based primarily on the work of David Kolb, a well-known psychologist and educational theorist. It theorizes that students will absorb knowledge more readily when they are able to confront a new experience, reflect and review how the new experience is linked to prior knowledge, draw conclusions, and practice what they have learned (McLeod 2017). This theory of real-world application builds upon the curriculum offered in STEM schools. In this case, it offered students a lens into socioeconomic opportunities outside of urban settings and teachers’ personal anecdotes to be used in future classroom lessons. When asked for comment, Mr. Vincent Branch, one of the school’s history teachers, stated that he believed, “the trip was an awesome experience and found that [Malonson’s] talk about entrepreneurship and management stood out and could be valuable across curriculum.” He continued to state that the trip should be, “open to more students” as a guide towards life lessons.

Throughout the school year at Washington High School, students are settled into a routine of course work tailored to their area of interest. Within the engineering program, students learn to design equipment and machinery they wish to compete with or use to add value within the community. Most recently, designs have included at least 2 successfully launched rockets, an artificial limb created using 3-D printing, and a series of drones that were created for in district competitions. Through its agriculture program, students have learned to raise and tend to livestock, including chickens, rabbits, and cows often shown and sold each year through the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Finally, the construction program on campus has facilitated the NCCER, The National Center for Construction Education and Research, certification for students placing them on the fast track for career development.

Through the leadership of Booker T. Washington Principal Dr. Carlos R. Phillips II, and with the assistance of Mr. Roy Douglas and Mrs. Shirley Ann Malonson, senior students and teachers were afforded the opportunity to tour and interact with RS Deer Ranch and learn about its inner workings first hand from those that work the land daily. Many practical lessons emerged, including knowledge of how deer, cattle, and other animals are born, bred, and sold as a part of the ranch’s primary income. Additionally, attendees could both fish from and paddle on a man-made lake created by Mr. Malonson himself. Erika Austin, the school’s data driven instructional specialist, stated, “this was an amazing opportunity to engage with teachers and staff outside of the typical school setting and celebrate the year’s accomplishments”, and Erica Encalade, a school clerk, exclaimed that, “the difference in environment and interaction with coworkers was nice and should be duplicated for years to come.”

Towards the end of the field experience, tour guide and owner Roy Malonson shared several personal accomplishments and triumphs with the group. He explained that from childhood and until the age of 14, he was in and out of the hospital due to a Polio diagnosis which left him physically handicapped. This coupled with familial struggles left Malonson in a position where many likely counted him out for future success. However, Mr. Malonson eloquently explained that his physical ailment did nothing to impair his mind. Within the community of Acres Homes, Malonson bought his first home by the age of 16 and had built and owned investment property by the age of 18. Although he did attend college at the University of St. Thomas, Malonson explained that he had gone to amass his fortune in land and business ownership without the assistance of an actual college degree. His testimony served as a lesson to onlookers that despite perceived setbacks, he has used his life and livelihood to build himself up and take time to teach others to do the same. Class president, Cleveland Shepard IV, thoroughly enjoyed his time at the ranch and stated that other students appreciated the time they had to, “unplug and enjoy nature.” He later added that “holding conversations with Mr. Malonson inspired [them] to want to become millionaires.”

Washington High School would like to extend a special thanks to the Malonson’s’ for their hospitality and time taken to teach students and teachers alike lessons beyond what could be attained in the classroom.

Photo credit: Jennifer Charles/B.T.W.

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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