Know Better and Do Better
By Chelsea Davis-Bibb
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” – Benjamin Franklin
I want to start this article with a question. How involved are you in your child’s education? In today’s society, I don’t think we take advantage of the educational opportunities that are available to our children. There are many factors that I think contribute to this such as parents utilizing the education system as a babysitter, the parents may have multiple jobs and may not have time to fully focus on their child’s education, or maybe because the parents are simply not informed of what is available for their child. Whatever the case may be, your child needs you to pay attention, be involved, and be present.
As a parent, it is our responsibility to make sure that our child’s needs are taken care of. This includes making sure that they are receiving a quality education that will help prepare them to be a productive citizen in the world. The issue is that our children are still falling behind. We have to do better as parents and do better as a community to bring them to their fullest potential.
There was a time when Black people risked their lives trying to learn how to read and write, but today, it seems as if we have “come too far” and have forgotten the struggles that our ancestors once faced. During slavery, slaves were not allowed to learn how to read and write because it was better to keep them ignorant. If you’re ignorant, then you don’t know any better, and if you don’t know any better, then you can’t do any better. We owe it to our ancestors, and we owe it to our children to do better.
The National Center for Education Statistics conducted a study in 2015-2016 regarding a high school graduation cohort. The ACGR (Adjusted Cohort Graduation Rate) is the percentage of public high school freshmen who graduate with a regular diploma within 4 years of starting 9thgrade.
Some of their findings found “American Indian/Alaska Native (72 percent), Black (76 percent), and Hispanic (79 percent) public high school students were below the national average of 84 percent. The ACGRs for White (88 percent) and Asian/Pacific Islander (91 percent) students were above the national average.” For me, below the national average is unacceptable. So how can we change this?
I believe it always has to start at home. Parents have to be involved in their child’s education. They have to go to meetings, be informed of what their child is being taught, and most importantly, ask questions and speak up if something is not right.
In addition, parents should get their children involved in different extracurricular activities so that they can explore their interest and determine what it is they may want to do in life. Many don’t realize that the younger days contribute to a lot of how a child develops.
When they are little children, they follow what has been set in front of them. They soak up everything that is around them. So parents, you have to be a great role model for them, and be there for them. This means not just showing up, but being present as well.
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.
