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www.EDUCATIONUPDATE.com AwardAward Volume XI, No. 6 • New York City • FEBRUARY 2006 Winner FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS BLACK HISTORY MONTH U.S. POSTAGEU.S. PAID VOORHEES, NJ VOORHEES, Permit No.500 No.500 Permit PRSRTSTD.

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4 part series • Pages 12 - 13 Special1 in a Education Part 2 EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS ■ FEBRUARY 2006

JUSTICE ALBIE SACHS: AFRICAN FREEDOM FIGHTER

By JOAN BAUM, Ph.D. equipment than what some townships can offer, It’s rare that students studying history get to an inequality she and Justice Sachs continue to meet leading players in landmark events, but address. At a full assembly Ms. September led recently, at Facing History High School (FHHS), a slide-show presentation of the housing boom a New Visions school on West 50th Street, a in South Africa today, at one point directing the group of youngsters—and pointer to Robben Island, then the entire class of 108 where Nelson Mandela 9th graders—had a chance had been imprisoned. to see, listen to and question Did Justice Sachs see South African freedom fight- similarities between the er Justice Albie Sachs. The Holocaust and apart- Justice, looking hale for his heid? Except for the fact 70-something years, despite that Nazi Germany and prolonged spells in solitary South Africa were both confinement and the loss “race obsessed,” there of an arm and sight in one is no need to compare eye, when racist car bombers horrors, he said. The went after him for his work Nazi regime was “over- on behalf of the African thrown,” apartheid was National Congress (ANC), “overcome.” Who was sits on the Constitutional the biggest influence on Court of South Africa, the nation’s highest judi- his life. “Me,” he smiles broadly, empty sleeve cial body. As expressed by FHHS Assistant flapping in the emphasis. He meant that his Principal Gillian Smith, the thrill of the young- own experiences were his influences, and that sters meeting someone “who did that” is unique. instead of looking to role models youngsters For the last ten years, Justice Sachs has been would be better advised to look to themselves sharing his professional and personal life with and chart a path—to face history and themselves. Vanessa September, a handsome, articulate “col- What is he doing now? Another smile—among ored” woman who, before the ending of apart- other activities, he is visiting American schools Touch the Future heid, would not have been able to live with talking about the mission of the South African Justice Sachs in an area formerly reserved for Constitution and the need for reconciliation, jus- whites, let alone pursue her dream of becom- tice and dignity. Among his many fine writings, ing an urban architect. But she is living proof The Soft Vengeance of a Freedom Fighter should Become a Teacher of what the freedom fighters, black and white, be noted, the new edition containing a forward by wrought in South Africa. Justice Sachs, who Desmond Tutu. speaks of his life’s work as a kind of moral FHHS was started last September in conjunc- imperative, said that he felt “privileged,” first, tion with Facing History and Ourselves, an If your passion is mathematics or science and you want to shape the because he had been able, as a white, to go to law international education and professional develop- school, and then because he participated in the ment organization whose mission is to “foster future, the new CUNY Teacher Academy is for you. Its purpose is to liberation movement led by Nelson Mandela and more humane and informed citizenry by exam- the ANC. It was Mandela, in fact, who appointed ining racism, prejudice and anti-Semitism” and educate a new generation of exceptional teachers who will inspire him in 1994 to the Constitutional Court. Those to get students to “think critically about their enthusiasm for science and mathematics in middle and high school were “tough days, tricky times,” he says quietly own behavior and its effect on the community.” of the years he spent fighting for justice in an all- Central in this effort has been the Community students. The Academy will prepare students for the profession of white court system. They were also also tough, Conversations series dedicated to “Rebuilding obviously because of the sacrifices of his own Communities in the Aftermath of Violence and teaching—a life’s work worthy of the most talented and dedicated individuals. life, but incredibly, Albie Sachs points out that Injustice” in which Albie Sachs and Vanessa others, mainly blacks, suffered more. September were taking part, thanks in large part FHHS students had several opportunities to to the Allstate Foundation, an independent, chari- Free tuition for four years and paid internships hear this amazing couple, including a small “advi- table organization” seeking to promote tolerance, sory group” breakfast where they listened to Ms. inclusion, diversity, and economic empower- September talk about the South African school ment.” Clearly FHHS students had an unusual Rigorous academic programs in math and science system and how it changed after apartheid into and memorable example of the significance of one curriculum, one standard for all, though those the name of their school.# Math and science research with top CUNY faculty who have money, black and white, can opt to send www.facinghistory.org their children to schools with better resources and Mentored hands-on experience in public schools Guaranteed full-time teaching job upon graduation THE LYCÉE FRANÇAIS DE NEW YORK

The Lycée Français de New York is a bilingual school with students from more than fifty nations (from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade). Associated with the network of French Lycées throughout the world, the Lycée is also an American, private, non-profit school chartered by the New York State Board of Regents and accredited by the French Ministry of Education. The French curriculum is supplemented by a program incorporating the essential elements teacher academy of a top-tier American private-school education. The blending of the French and American programs distinguishes the Lycée Français de New York and creates graduates who have a deeper apply now for fall 2006 understanding of both the European culture in which they are educated and the American culture in which they live. Not only do students learn American and European history, many also learn to celebrate Thanksgiving for the first time! Although the primary language of instruction is French, many classes are team taught in French and English. This cross-disciplinary approach ensures For information and an application, call 212-794-5323. that students are equally prepared to continue their course of study at either North American or European institutions of higher education. E-mail: [email protected] With the opening of our spectacular new auditorium in May 2005, we now have a cultural center which will provide a unique venue for the students to express their artistic creativity. The www.cuny.edu/teacheracademy Lycée’s Cultural Center will offer the students the opportunity to participate in a host of artistic performances (music, theatre, exhibits, multi-media and film) as well as listen to leading speakers addressing a variety of international topics. We are fortunate that our rigorous academic program An Initiative of the NYC Partnership for Teacher Excellence is now enriched by these new cultural opportunities. The academic curriculum and after-school calendar include a rich program of sports, artistic and cultural activities, fostering the development of independent, creative minds and a strong work The City ethic. The school’s location also allows it to integrate into its curriculum numerous field trips to museums, art galleries, educational and business organizations as well as to encourage inter-school University athletic, artistic, musical and literary competitions. The Lycée’s 17 Junior Varsity and Varsity teams of compete with other New York City schools in the ISAL (Independent Schools Athletic League) and the AIPSL (American and International Private Schools League). New York For more information about the Lycée Français de New York, please contact The Admissions office at (212) 369-1400. FEBRUARY 2006 ■ FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS ■ EDUCATION UPDATE 3

EDUCATION UPDATE GUEST EDITORIAL American economy in forty years. Whereas a Mailing Address: Needed: Quality Education for All high school diploma was sufficient for one to 17 Lexington Avenue, A1207 enter the American job market in the 20th centu- New York, NY 10010 By HOWARD DODSON egies for closing the gap (if they ever had any). ry, a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent will be a Email: [email protected] www.EducationUpdate.com The crisis in American education What snapped me into a realization of the depth minimal prerequisite for entry into the American Tel: 212-477-5600 in general and black education in of the educational crisis for black Americans and job market in the 21st century. The implications Fax: 212-477-5893 particular is more serious than I America as a whole were some of the findings of this fact are both startling and sobering. thought. Toward the end of last reported by Kati Haycock of the Washington, The American education system is set up to PUBLISHER AND EDITOR: year, I attended the New York State D.C.-based education think tank, The Education offer all students the opportunity to complete a Pola Rosen, Ed.D. Education Summit. More than 600 educators Trust. She had looked at the performance gap that high school education. Early on, those who are ADVISORY COUNCIL: were in attendance, including the Commissioner had developed between American education and believed to be college material are selected out of Education, Chancellors of the CUNY and its leading competitors in the global education and tracked into college preparatory academic Charlotte K. Frank, Ph.D., Senior VP, SUNY Systems, superintendents of the major environment. Whereas the United States had led programs. The rest are tracked to complete their McGraw-Hill; Augusta S. Kappner, Ph.D., public school systems in the state, Regents from the world in educational performance for years, formal academic training in 12-13 years (K-12). President, Bank St. College; Alfred S. the New York State Board of Regents, principals, recently it had slipped into the twentieth place The economic and social realities of the 21st Posamentier, Ph.D., Dean, CCNY; Adam teachers and educational reform advocates. or less in many performance areas. The new century require that all students entering the first Sugerman, Publisher, Palmiche Press; The immediate focus of attention was on the emerging stars are People’s Republic of China grade be prepared to pursue at least 16 years of Laurie Tisch, Chair, Center for Arts increasing performance gaps between African and India, both of whom graduated more than a academic training leading at a minimum to a Education Americans and other minorities and whites in million more students from college last year than bachelor’s degree. This is required if graduates ASSOCIATE EDITORS: New York States’ K-12 and university education the United States. In both countries, their higher are to find work in the new economy. It’s also Heather Rosen, Adam Sugerman, systems. Plenary speakers presented the most educational programs are dwarfing U.S. produc- required if America is going to be competitive Rob Wertheimer recent statistical findings. They were not very tivity. China, for instance graduated over 300,000 in the global political economy. I repeat, ALL different from those presented in previous years. engineers last year. And India, graduated over American students must pursue undergraduate ASSISTANT EDITORS: Just widening gaps. The overwhelming majority 150,000. The U.S. output was a mere 75,000 degrees if they are to be successful, and the Liza Young of those in attendance were white and all seemed from all of its colleges and universities. This is American educational system must be retooled to GUEST COLUMNISTS: to nod knowingly as these statistics were rattled just one area where American education is losing deliver such opportunities if America is to remain Gina Bellafante, Keith Berman, M.Ed., off. There were few surprises in their recounting ground in the global market place. competitive. This means that the Black and other M.S. Ed., Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, and the general mood in the hall was that that’s But the crisis is even greater when looked at minority students who are being failed by the Howard Dodson, Joel Haber,Ph.D., Dr. the way it is and there is little that we can do in the context of the American national economy current system are in even greater jeopardy. But Carol Hankin, Senator Liz Krueger, Jill about it. Blacks and minority students are not that will exist 40 years from now. According to so are the rest of America’s children who are not Levy, Phyllis Murray, Alfred Posamentier, measuring up to the challenges posed by the old one source, at the present rate of performance, pursuing college degrees today.# Ph.D., Lenore Ruben standards, much less the new, and those in atten- a significant percentage of the American pub- Howard Dodson is the Director of the Schomburg dance seemed to have run out of alternative strat- lic will not be qualified to fill the jobs in the Center for Research in Black Culture in NY. STAFF WRITERS: Jacob Appel, J.D., Stevanne Auerbach, Ph.D., Joan Baum, Ph.D., Gillian Granoff, Richard Kagan, Sybil Maimin, Martha IN THIS ISSUE LETTERS TO THE EDITOR McCarthy, Ph.D., Merri Rosenberg, Emily Spotlight on Schools ...... 2-7 Re: A Glimpse into the Imprisonment man be rewarded at this point with honor, peace, Sherwood, Ph.D., Liza Young of Jean Harris and fulfillment of all of his dreams. Editorial & Letters ...... 3 BOOK REVIEWERS: To the Editor: Julie-Ann Kosakowski, Harris Healy III, Lillian Shapiro, Colleges & Grad Schools ...... 8-11.16-18 Jean Harris has realistically described the Retired Elementary Teacher Selene Vasquez whole women’s prison situation accurately and Pasadena, CA Special Education ...... 12-13 has given us many insights to how we might MEDICAL EDITOR: rectify things within the prison system itself. If To the Editor: Herman Rosen, M.D. COVER STORY ...... 14-15 we followed her guidance, our prison population I have lost touch with Ray Cortines. Could you MODERN LANGUAGE EDITOR: Movies & Theater ...... 16 could actually decrease, in time!! either provide me with his e-mail, or e-mail this Adam Sugerman Myrna Hunt to him so he can respond? Thank you. Bend, OR Clint E. Smith EDITOR-AT-LARGE: Music, Art & Dance ...... 19 Stanford, CA Steve Bailey CAMPS ...... 20-21 Re: Profiles in Education: MOVIE & THEATER REVIEWS: Books ...... 22-23 An Interview With Ramon Cortines Re: What in the World is a Grip & Gaffer? Jan Aaron To the Editor: To the Editor: MUSIC EDITOR: Children’s Corner ...... 24 In my experiences as a parent in Pasadena and I like Shane’s story, there is some good advice Irving M. Spitz as a teacher in Los Angeles, I came to admire too. I have worked on major films for 2 years as Resource & Reference Guide ...... 25 Ramon Cortines as the most approachable, con- a truck driver (facilities person), making steps to POLITICAL COMMENTARY: scientious administrator imaginable. I walked becoming an assistant grip. I live in the UK. My MetroBEAT ...... 26 Stuart Dunn into his office when he was Superintendent in aim is to set up my own film support vehicle with ART DIRECTOR: Medical Update ...... 27 Pasadena and was amazed by the fact that he all the jibs, track and dollys. If any one wants to Neil Schuldiner knew me and the teachers of each of my three get into the film game, be prepared to work long new-to-the-district children. I always got answers hours in sometimes cold places for free. Enjoy. ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: to concerns regarding my children in Pasadena, Steve Lewis. Martin Lieberman, Manager. and years later I received prompt and helpful UK Steve Bailey, Nancy Kontos, replies to letters about my students in L.A. As is David Edelman, Melissa Vega demonstrated in this interview, Mr. Cortines hon- Re: Interview with Olympic Medalist Nadia ACCOUNTING MANAGER: estly cares about education and about children, Comaneci Michael Portnoy and he has a finely-tuned sense of what is needed To the Editor: in every situation for every person involved, child I’m doing a history day project on Nadia Education Update is published monthly to administrator. His is a carefully balanced mix Comaneci. Your article was very helpful. by Education Update, Inc. All material is of ivory-tower educational wisdom and get-your- Samantha Beck copyrighted and may not be printed without express consent of the publisher. hands-dirty, practical problem-pushing which has Council Bluffs, IA benefitted every one of his communities. May the

EDUCATION UPDATE IS AN INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER 4 SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FEBRUARY 2006 William L. Taylor: Passionate Advocate of the Civil Rights Movement By JOAN BAUM, Ph.D. he continues to be as active as ever, going against tion for public affairs and tion he cannot answer, and The title of William L. Taylor’s influential, well the grain, if necessary, a fact recently attested to public service, a legacy of attempting a task he can- received legal autobiography, The Passion of My in a January 4, 2006 article about him in The New Justice William O. Douglas, not achieve.” Like the Rev. Times: An Advocate’s Fifty-Year Journey in the York Times by Samuel Freedman who called and upon graduation in 1954 King, a “visionary” who Civil Rights Movement—just out in paperback— him “a grandee of the civil rights movement.” was soon putting Holmes’s would be pleased by many is taken, he proudly points out, from Oliver For sure, this particular eminence gris remains as dictum of action and pas- societal changes made since Wendell Holmes’s comment that “As life is dedicated and spirited as ever, even as he seems sion into practice. Starting Selma, but deeply concerned action and passion, it is required of a man that he to be upsetting some of his long-time liberal base out at the NAACP’s Legal at what still needs to be done should share the passion and action of his time, in advocating for No Child Left Behind (pause Defense Fund, where he for the poor and underprivi- at the peril of being not to have lived.” What’s for compassionate chuckle). joined Thurgood Marshall leged, William Taylor, who truly admirable—aside from the author’s declara- A graduate of Abraßham Lincoln High School and helped write the 1958 acknowledges that he does tion that he had “fun” writing it—is that for all of (“the year [his idol] Jackie Robinson broke Little Rock desegregation not have answers to some William Taylor’s over 50-year groundbreaking the color barrier in the major leagues with the brief, Taylor went on to questions, refuses despite

work as a civil rights attorney and advocate, put- Brooklyn Dodgers”); an alumnus of Brooklyn become staff director at the World AP/Wide enormous frustrations to ting his mind and body on the line to serve the College, where he made waves opposing the U.S. Commission on Civil yield to despair. A coalition cause of equal opportunity and racial justice, he’s authoritarian administration of the day, young Rights and to found The Center for National builder, he continues to lobby for subsidies for still at it, the past alive in the present. Though a Taylor, weaned on sensitivity to human rights by Policy Review, at the same time teaching civil those who would engage in public interest law. bit on in years, a fact totally belied by the ener- parents who lived in the glow of FED, attended rights law at Catholic University. The sixties, of He sees more idealism than a sense of hopeless- getic tenor of his voice and lively, focused humor, Yale Law School, which still enjoys a reputa- course, for any civil rights advocate, black and ness in today’s young graduates. He is amused white, was a historic, tumultuous and dangerous by the attitude that implies that a successful civil period, but the results found expression, among rights attorney ought to think now about being other pieces of legislation Taylor helped write, “a real lawyer.” He persists in opposing “ter- in the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting ritoriality” that would ignore individual school Rights Act. Needless to say, William Taylor was success because it might threaten the status quo in Natchez during Freedom Summer, a “palpa- of entrenched bureaucracy. He recognizes but bly scary” time but “nobody turned back.” The strives against the societal effects of the separa- Passion of My Times details with lively anec- tion of people that results in concentrated areas dotes and scrupulously fair analyses what the of poverty, inequitable school funding, and thus legal and political fight was like in those days unfair educational opportunity. His late wife following Brown v. Board of Education. It also Harriet Taylor was a Superior Court Judge and reinforces his “passion” to realize Martin Luther though none of his three children have entered King’s last dream to ensure equal opportunity for law, they each, with multiple careers, have com- children living in poverty. mitted themselves to help reform society through What particularly distinguishes William Taylor, the arts, self-empowerment programs and serving a distinguished Jewish fighter for the rights of those with disabilities. In their way they have African-Americans and other minorities, is how inherited and acted on William Taylor’s strong much he seems to have taken another Holmes belief that anyone can—and should—try to make pronouncement to heart: “A man may fulfill a difference, to be an agent of change.# the object of his existence by asking a ques-

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Information and Admissions : tel. 1 212 439 3834 [email protected] www.lfny.org FEBRUARY 2006 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS 5 DR. HENRI FORD, PEDIATRIC SURGEON EXTRAORDINAIRE By JOAN BAUM, Ph.D. of Pittsburgh School of Medicine where he enterocolitis genetic and to what extent? If any, It was quite a leap for Haitian-born Henri was an attending surgeon, a member of the his research lab will get the answer. Ford who knew no English to attend John Jay faculty, and co-director of the Fetal Diagnosis Though it may strike some as ironic, Dr. Ford High School in Brooklyn—where he was called and Treatment Center at Children’s Hospital of credits among his achievements being an active “Frenchie”—and then go on for his B.A. at Pittsburgh and the Magee-Women’s Hospital at voice on behalf of no surgery, “pushing the enve- Princeton, not to mention moving from there the University. He also held the Benjamin R. lope” with traumatologists who work children, in record time to Harvard Medical School, but Fisher Chair in Pediatric Surgery at the School especially those suffering from spleen, liver or for this Vice President and Chief of Surgery at of Medicine. Under what colleagues called his kidney disorders, to explore other treatments Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Vice Chair “exceptional leadership,” pediatric trauma and because “non-op management” is less risky. Of of the Department of Surgery at the Keck School pediatric surgical research programs reached course, Dr. Ford sees a lot of young victims of of Medicine (USC), affiliated with Children’s enviable new heights. So why did he leave and AIDS and a good part of his life’s work these days Hospital, “leaps” are “challenges.” In fact, he go to California? Well, the population of children is also taken up with educating parents, especially laughs, recalling a saying of a classmate years in Pittsburgh was shrinking and, well, “chal- young mothers with drug addiction problems, ago, “excellence will silence all your critics.” lenge.” Dr. Ford’s work on the “pathogenesis of who are more prone than others to have prema- Considering Dr. Ford’s considerable reputation necrotizing enterocolitis—the most common and ture babies. He also addresses parents on how as a surgeon and as a heavily funded and much lethal disease affecting the gastrointestinal tract to protect their children from injury—installing published researcher in pediatric surgery, his spe- of newborn infants”—has led to exciting insights window gates, ensuring playground safety. He is cialty, it must be pretty quiet out there. into the diagnosis, treatment, and pre-natal pre- proud to complete the circle—inspired by men- Dr. Ford modestly refers to his John Jay H.S. vention. Why do some children develop these tors he has become a highly revered and beloved days as a time of “difficult transition.” Not know- internal problems and not others? Is necrotizing one himself.# ing English, “the boy from Haiti,” as he was known, could hardly have expected a welcoming team, but he wound up getting a fine education. When he got to Princeton, thanks to a summer Henri Ford, M.D. CITY TECH STUDENT SHARES language tutor in high school who urged him on, he recalls how his first year there was one of “culture shock.” All those fancy cars—late models, School of Government. “I was, in a sense, deliv- THOUGHTS FROM IRAQ of course—but Henri Ford had a good line ready ered to science,” he says, for a number of reasons, – “I parked my bus on the street.” By the end of including the fact that an older sister, an inspira- the year, he felt entirely comfortable. Indeed, he tional figure, who also went to JJHS, persisted says that his undergraduate days were “the four with her studies, despite the loss of an eye and happiest years” of his life. It was where he met multiple surgeries. Then there were mentors, and his wife and where he a pursued a B.A. in public sisters married to doctors, but most of all, it was and international affairs, with a special interest in the surgery rotation of his third-year at medical Latin American politics, graduating cum laude in school that sealed the choice—he “fell in love with 1980 and responding to what he felt was a need surgery,” and in particular with helping children. for social change. A friend, now the chief of surgery at Children’s But Dr. Ford loves challenge, and though his col- National who “takes credit for my career!” had lege major served him well, he turned to medicine spoken glowingly of pediatric surgery.” almost inevitably, though he did toy with going Dr. Ford has been at Children’s Hospital for to graduate school, law school, and the Kennedy a little over a year, having left the University

Jude Poku and his mentor, Dr. Pamela Brown, Dean of Arts & Sciences at City Tech

For New York City College of Technology ducible results.” EDUCATIONAL LEARNING GAMES (City Tech) student Jude Poku, working on the Poku’s work was presented by Dr. Brown in breathalyzer lab would build a relationship with March 2005 at the American Chemical Society’s his mentor, Chemistry Professor Pamela Brown, national meeting in San Diego. that would sustain him during the long months he Days later, Poku’s world as he knew it changed was about to serve in Iraq. dramatically—his army reserve unit was called The FUN Way To Learn! “Jude was a very good student and I knew up, deployed to Iraq and put on convoy patrol in he wanted to go to medical school,” explained Taji. Subsequently, his unit was sent to Baghdad �� Brown, who is now City Tech’s Acting Dean of to patrol Route Irish, the main artery leading to the �� Arts and Sciences. “I thought an opportunity for airport, which was a hotbed of insurgent activity. him to do research would improve his chances “While I was in Iraq, Dr. Brown wrote to me �� for admission.” and sent me biology and MCAT (entrance boards To work on the project, Poku, 26, a Flatbush for med school) study guides. When I would �� resident, received a stipend from the National return to the base after doing a convoy patrol or Science Foundation’s Louis Stokes New York searching homes for insurgents and weapons, I City Alliance for Minority Participation. would study these books. “He went beyond the initial assignment by not Five months after landing in Iraq, Poku’s hum- only developing the procedure but optimizing it,” vee overturned and the chest, shoulder and knee Dr. Brown says. “That is, he found the minimum injuries he sustained cut short his tour of active reaction time and materials needed to get repro- duty. Back in the New York area, he was able to attend City Tech as a part-time weekend student during the fall while continuing to serve at Fort Dix, NJ, until his discharge came through. With renewed focus on academics, he is enrolled as a We carry over 1,600 Educational Games full-time student for the spring semester. Born and raised in Guyana, Poku first visited at Educational Learning Games New York in 1990 and then came here to stay in 1998. “I was always good in math and science and my father had been encouraging me since I was little to become a medical doctor,” Poku recalls. Educational �� “Basic training in the military gave me the Discounts ability to focus and helped me get back on track �� after the years of menial jobs,” he says. He Available has applied for admission into the CUNY BA �� Program, which he hopes to enter next semester �� after completing his associate’s degree in liberal arts and sciences. Further down the road, after med school, he intends to travel to less fortunate countries and �� treat their people. “I saw a lot of sick Iraqi women and children while stationed there,” he explains. “My time in Iraq taught me to be �� grateful for what I have here in the States and to extend a hand when I can.”# 6 SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FEBRUARY 2006

SPORTS IN SCHOOLS

and 12 rebounds a game. He is only going to on the team.” Midwood currently has a 16-6 Noel Steps Up Big For Midwood Hornets improve as a player. “I feel overjoyed that I overall record and is 7-5 in its division. Last sea- made it this far,” said Noel. “My friends told me son the Hornets were ranked No. 12 in the PSAL By RICHARD KAGAN you’re going to be on the bench and won’t play playoff seedings but were upset in the first round. Recently, Midwood High School until your senior year. I’ve proved them wrong.” This season Gjecaj hopes the team can stick in Brooklyn defeated South Shore Gjecaj recalls a game earlier this season when around longer. “We could do very well,” said High School 62-60 in a Public School Noel scored 24 points and had 23 rebounds and Gjecaj about his team’s playoff hopes. Athletic League basketball game that fouled out of the game midway through the third Noel has been working on his stamina. When put the Hornets into the Publick quarter against Thomas Jefferson HS. The more the season started he said he got winded going up School Athletic League (PSAL) Noel is in the game, the more opportunities he and down the court. Now he’s getting stronger playoffs. Greg Noel had a great has to help the team. The last five games, Noel and is ready to go as playoffs will soon start to game scoring 10 points, grabbing 18 hasn’t fouled out. crown the best Brooklyn team in the PSAL. After rebounds, and drawing six charges by Now that the playoffs are around the corner, that, it’s the city-wide PSAL playoffs. That’s the opposing team. Gjecaj hopes Noel can continue to make a lot of pressure-packed games for a freshman. A charge is player control foul on positive contributions. “He’s a great rebound- Noel said he’ll see “the playoffs for the first time the offense and the ball is awarded to er,” Gjecaj said. “The most physical kid we have in my life.” This time he’ll be in them.# the team on defense. As a result, Noel helped his team get six extra posses- sions in the game. What is noteworthy about Noel’s IPODS REVOLUTIONIZE FIELD TRIPS AT POLY PREP IN BROOKLYN play in that game and this season is that he is a freshman who starts Bay Ridge, Brooklyn—A middle school history teacher here at Poly Prep Country Day School has in Brooklyn’s 3A division, featuring turned his students’ love for iPods into an incredible academic experience. With the help of a fellow some of the best teams in the PSAL technology teacher, Caesar Fabella recorded an MP3 file his own audio tour of the Ancient Near East like Boys & Girls High School, Paul galleries of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Fabella spent a weekend in the museum, choosing 19 Robeson, and Canarsie. At 6’4”, Noel artifacts, studying them in the museum library, and then creating exercises for the students to hear on plays power forward, leading the individual iPods or other devices. team in rebounds, and shows great Under the spell of their teacher’s voice, the sixth graders were drawn inward and better able to focus hustle on the court. Noel also can on the amazing lessons at hand. They were less distracted by the usual excitement of a field trip, and better able to enjoy and appreciate the displays on a field trip last week. score in the low-post near the basket. The recordings also freed the students, Fabella, and his fellow teachers inside the gallery. They didn’t His coach, Victor Gjecaj, who has have to walk en masse from piece to piece, straining to hear the lecture and standing on tiptoe to try been at the helm for 10 years, says and get a good glimpse of the pieces described. Grouped in pairs with one iPod, MP3 player or CD Noel is a rare find. In his ten years player, the students could stroll from piece to piece, examining the artifacts closely and rewinding the at Midwood, Gjecaj has only started descriptions whenever needed. Teachers could mingle among the students, answering questions and four freshmen, and ironically, three of offering enrichment. Students who missed the trip could download the recording and venture to the those are on this season’s squad. played all four years for Midwood. museum on their own time. Khaleef Allicott, now a senior point guard, who So has Andre Frenkel, a 6’5” senior who chips “I could be virtually everywhere,” said Fabella, who plans to use the recordings in future trips. “The averages 25 points and 12 assists a game is one in with 14 points a game. possibilities for this are endless.” of the bona fide point guards in the city. He has Noel is one to watch. He averages eight points Students said they loved listening to their favorite tunes on the bus ride, too. For details, please contact communication director Melissa Tyrrell or Mr. Fabella at 718-836-9800. Photos from a recent trip are available by e-mail. POLY PREP COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL 9216 Seventh Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11228-3698 718.836.9800 Fax 718.836.0590 mtyrrell @polyprep.org

PreschoolPreschool (212)(212) 229-9340 229-9340 247 West247 24th West Street, 24th Street,New York, New NY York, 10011 NY 10011 OPENOPEN HOUSE HOUSE Jan 13,Jan Feb13, Feb10 10 at 10at am 10 am AcceptingAccepting ApplicationsApplications Limited Limitedplaces places NurseryNursery & Pre &K Pre Programs K Programsfor ‘06-’07for ‘06-’07 now availablenow available for3 yr Schoololds for School tours toursby appointment by appointment only only 2 & 3 yr2 olds & Open Openyear round,year round, 8am—6pm 8am—6pm daily daily Part timePart &time Full &time Full time LicensedLicensed by NYC by Dept.NYC Dept.of Health of Health CelebratingCelebrating 12 Years12 Years

TheThe SSalvationalvation TTherapeuticherapeutic FosterFoster BoardingBoarding HomeHome ProgramProgram is looking for individuals to become a part of our team and Help a Child in Need We are looking for homes in Brooklyn and Manhattan. You will receive a generous stipend to cover your expenses. �� FEBRUARY 2006 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS 7 William C. Thompson, Jr.: A First-Class Leader On His Second Term By JOAN BAUM, Ph.D. thing clicked. He loved it, and four or five years to make outcomes, in the Though The New York Times noted his life in public service took form of standardized testing the sole standard in its report on the Mayor’s January shape. Two years later, he was of success. 26th State of the City address that unanimously elected presi- Of course, the “activist” 42nd Comptroller of William C. Thompson, Jr. had been dent of the board. The school New York City, out to “find new, creative ways reelected with 92 percent of the vote, system then, having endured to save the taxpayers money,” is not the Schools the admirable Comptroller of The City 20 dubious years of decen- Chancellor, though it would seem only natural of New York wondered why this fact tralization, was ready, he felt, that someone who had been at the helm of public was even mentioned two months after for a strong chancellor to take education in the city for so many years would not the fact, when he ran virtually unop- charge, and Thompson is par- have an opinion on current initiatives. He surely posed in a race without a Republican ticularly pleased with his role realizes that his own programs are integrally or Independent candidate. In his own in getting legislation passed in related to education and turn on common themes inaugural address, given January 1, Albany to that effect. Again, —collaboration, innovative uses of technology, he spoke of being “deeply honored” with no ego in evidence, he new investments and commitment to include at being given another opportunity to says only that he helped create more women, African Americans and Latinos in serve. Such modesty, genuine as it is an environment for reform, major roles to “keep our city strong.”# rare, reflects why the Comptroller is so “his proudest achievement.” popular: he is direct, gracious, modest, Administrative change meant thoughtful. Brooklyn born and bred, that he could—and did—con- language arts private teacher William Thompson speaks with affec- centrate on bringing school tion of his native Bed Stuy, where he districts together, focus- still lives, and of his family—especial- ing more on teacher quality, ly his father, Judge William Thompson, bringing the arts back into the �� who swore him in, and his mother, who curriculum, moving on after- English �� had been a schoolteacher for many school programs. He gives �� years (she taught at P.S. 262, he instinc- good grades to the Department � Grammar �� tively recalls, without being asked). of Education, which in one � �� Both parents were great influences year, can point to improved Vocabulary on his choice of career. His father scores and a continuation of � Usage was the first African American elected tougher requirements. If the official to serve in the New York State Comptroller has reservations Residential Please Call. . . Senate and this fact caused his son about education policies it is Tutoring to turn to politics rather than govern- concern that there be contain- $ /hr. ment when he entered Tufts University ment of the rush of the last 35 Janet after graduation from Midwood High. �� But it was the rough and tumble of an youngest Deputy Borough President (under actual campaign that confirmed Thompson’s Howard Golden). direction. As a teenager he worked on the William Thompson tried the private sec- mayoral campaign of Kenneth Gibson in tor for a while, working for a Wall Street The Marvelwood School New Jersey. This was in the late ‘60s; years firm, but when he became a member of later, Thompson would become Brooklyn’s the Board of Education in 1994, some- A Guided Journey to Achievement

• Grades 9 – 12 • College prep curriculum • 4:1 student teacher ratio • Community service • Full interscholastic sports program, clubs • Excellent faculty: friendly, supportive • Summer school program for grades 7-11, focusing on reading, writing, ESL, and math skills 1-800-440-9107 or 860 927-0047 • Beautiful mountaintop www.marvelwood.org campus: hiking, canoeing, biking, Email: [email protected] ﬁshing 8 COLLEGES & GRADUATE SCHOOLS ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FEBRUARY 2006 THE DEAN’S COLUMN Master Your Education Some Mind-Bogglers on � By ALFRED ematics state that in its earliest manifestation in POSAMENTIER, Ph.D. history, namely the Bible (Old Testament), its From early exposure to math- value is given as 3. Yet recent “detective work” Vermont College’s ematics, students become famil- shows otherwise. iar with π. As the most popular Students always relish the notion that a hidden M.Ed. Program formulas in elementary math- code can reveal long lost secrets. Such is the case ematics (and those that seem to stick with us long with the common interpretation of the value of π can help. after we really know what they mean) are 2πr and in the Bible. There are two places in the Bible πr2, many students begin to lose sight of what π where the same sentence appears, identical in Student-designed, means and may need some reminding. There are every way except for one word, spelled differently individualized study entire books written about π—one of which was in the two citations. The description of a pool or written by this author. One of the best ways to fountain in King Solomon’s temple is referred to Low-residency program motivate someone about the nature of π is to show in the passages that may be found in 1 Kings 7:23 something a bit dramatic. Perhaps starting with and 2 Chronicles 4:2, and read as follows: Professional development the following “experiment” would do the trick. And he made the molten sea of ten cubits from Take a tall and narrow cylindrical drinking brim to brim, round in compass, and the height glass. Ask a student if the circumference is thereof was five cubits; and a line of thirty cubits Licensure in: greater or less than the height. The glass should did compass it round about. Teaching be chosen so that it would “appear” to have a The circular structure described here is said to longer height than its circumference. (The typical have a circumference of 30 cubits and a diameter Counseling tall narrow drinking glass fits this requirement.) of 10 cubits. (A cubit is the length of a person’s Leadership Now ask the student how he/she might test fingertip to his elbow.) From this we notice that his/her conjecture (aside from using a piece of the Bible has π = 30 = 3. Offering: string). Recall for him/her that the formula for 10 B.A. • M.Ed. the circumference of a circle is C = πd (π times This is obviously a very primitive approxima- M.F.A. • Ph.D. the diameter). He/she may recall that π = 3.14 is tion of π. A late 18th century Rabbi, Elijah of M.A. in Psychology the usual approximation, but we’ll be even more Vilna (Poland), one of the great modern biblical crude and use π = 3. Thus, the circumference scholars, who earned the title “Gaon of Vilna” Contact: will be 3 times the diameter, which can be eas- (meaning brilliance of Vilna), came up with a 888.828.8575 ily “measured” with a stick or a pencil and then remarkable discovery, one that could make most marked off 3 times along the height of the glass. history of mathematics books faulty if they say www.tui.edu Usually you will find that the circumference is that the Bible approximated the value of π as 3. longer than the tall glass, even though it does not Elijah of Vilna noticed that the Hebrew word of “appear” to be so. This little optical trick is use- “line measure” was written differently in each of ful to demonstrate the value of π. the two Biblical passages mentioned above. Now for a real “mind blower!” To appreciate In 1 Kings 7:23 it was written as , whereas הזק the next revelation on , you need to know that in 2 Chronicles 4:2 it was written as . Elijah זק π virtually all the books on the history of math- continued on page 18 Avery Van Annie by photo

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Wed., Feb. 22, 6 p.m. Fifth Floor and Sixth Floors 325 Hudson Street (corner of Vandam) New York City

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Phi Delta Kappa, Columbia University, GODDARD COLLEGE RECEIVES $500,000 GIFT; Celebrates Achievements of Principals DONATION HONORS CLO PITKIN By POLA ROSEN, Ed.D. Goddard College has received a $500,000 gift, the largest single alumni donation in the College’s Phi Delta Kappa honored three principals for history. The donor wishes to remain anonymous. their outstanding work in inclusion and special The gift is being given in honor of Clo Pitkin, class of 1953, in recognition of the historical signifi-

� cance of Goddard College and the legacy of the Pitkin family. Ms. Pitkin is the daughter-in-law of

� education, with a gala dinner at the Columbia � Goddard College’s founder and first President Royce “Tim” Pitkin, and is a current member of the University Faculty House recently. Maria board of trustees. “I am honored and extremely pleased that Goddard is receiving this kind of strong Ciccone, the principal of PS 222 in Queens was support,” said Ms. Pitkin. honored as Principal of the Year. She has worked “The donor has requested that the funds be allocated to meet short and long term needs of the alongside Professor Lucy Caulkins; her school College,” said Daryl Campbell, Dean of Finance and Institutional Advancement, “including the has been a model site for the Teachers College College’s annual fund, unrestricted endowment, and facilities.” President Mark Schulman noted, Reading and Writing Project for many years. A “this gift is a statement of Goddard College’s significance to higher education and the importance of tearful moment was shared at the podium by a the Pitkin family to the institution.” Goddard is a liberal arts college long dedicated to progressive (L-R) Maria Ciccone, Dr. Cathy Rikhye, education, and the first to offer innovative delivery models for adults. The College now enrolls 540 Loretta Caputo continued on page 18 students in bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. Goddard College is a leader in low-residency education. Students from all over the United States come to the Goddard campus in Plainfield, Vermont to attend eight-day residencies and create plans for individualized learning experiences. When students return home, they remain in contact with their SCHOOL OF VISUAL ARTS (SVA) IN NYC: respective faculty advisor and work independently to complete a Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts or LEADER AND INNOVATOR Master of Fine Arts degree. More information can be found at www.goddard.edu or 1-800-906-8312.#

How best to educate children has become one of the most debated issues of our time. As new programs and learning methods strive for acceptance and test results become the barometer for success, teachers face new challenges establishing a classroom environment that encourages creative and imaginative thinking. The importance of art in the curriculum has never been greater. The art classroom is a place where children are given the opportunity to explore and develop their personal dreams and goals and to think independently. �� The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program at the School of Visual Arts (SVA) provides a “hands-on” learning environment where student teachers can research and explore educational issues and topics as well as develop their own ideas and continue with their own artwork. The thesis project enables MAT students to explore topics of personal importance through literature review and �� conducting “action-based research” in real life classroom settings. The process of completing a thesis provides them with the framework for future inquiry and professional accomplishment. �� Community involvement is a vital component of a well-rounded teacher’s education. The curricu- �� lum requirements include student teaching in diverse New York City public school sites, and experience in SVA’s community-based children’s programs. These programs include a class held at a shelter �� for homeless mothers with young children, as well as Saturday and summer Art for Kids programs. �� MAT students can also choose to participate in the Art Education Department’s collaborative projects Educationfor children Updatewith such organizations as CityArts Inc. �� JuneWe 2004 believe thatIssue to teach art, you should first be an artist who can use the power of art to open the �� minds, as well as the eyes, of the young to new experiences and individual fulfillment. One person—a P.O.gifted #: and 13572 caring teacher—can still make a difference in a young person’s life. Our Masters program �� is for artists who want to become teachers and make that difference. �� School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York City is an established leader and innovator in the educa- �� 2-1/4tion of x artists. 1-3/4 From its inception in 1947, the faculty has been comprised of professionals working in the arts and art-related fields. Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees are offered in Advertising & Graphic Design; Computer Art; Film, Video & Animation; Fine Arts; Illustration & Cartooning; Interior Design; � and Photography. Master of Fine Arts degrees are offered in Art Criticism & Writing; Computer Art; �� Design; Fine Arts, Illustration as Visual Essay; and Photography, Video and Related Media. A Master of Professional Studies is offered in Art Therapy and a Master of Arts in Teaching. SVA also offers �� over 300 continuing education classes per semester, in all disciplines. To find out more visit www.sva. �� edu or 212.592.2000. ��

�� COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY DIRECTORY�� ① ② ➂ �� ➃

�� THE BANK STREET APPROACH �� Learn �� how to be �� Come to Goddard as you are. �� STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK a great �� Leave the way you want to be. �� Wed., Feb. 22, 6 p.m. Fifth and Sixth Floors teacher. �� 325 Hudson Street 1-800-468-4888 (corner of Vandam) �� Bank Streetwww.goddard.edu Graduate School �� New York City �� 610 WestOpen 112th House St, NY, May NY 1002514th- Plainfield, VT �� www.bankstreet.edu 212.875.4698 ��

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imagination JOIN A REVOLUTION in education innovation professional development& Celebrity Speakers • A Town Hall meeting on educational policy, moderated by TOM BROKAW • Actor RICHARD DREYFUSS “On Democracy” • Forum on Global Education hosted by GWEN IFILL of PBS’s Washington Week NEW YORK’S • FRANK McCOURT, best-selling author of Teacher Man, discusses his own urban teaching experiences INAUGURAL Professional Development Celebration ’06 is an all-discipline professional development conference for K–12 educators. Distinguished speakers from GEOFFREY CANADA to CATHY SEELEY to PEDRO NOGUERA CELEBRATION will cover a diverse range of topics from Adolescent Literacy to The Missing Ingredient in Education Today. In-the-classroom sessions OF TEACHING Dozens of intimate workshop presentations will give teachers exciting new and practical ideas to take back to their classrooms. AND plus... Performances by Dancing Classrooms and the young stars of TM the 2005 documentary, Mad Hot Ballroom, plus Rafe Esquith’s fifth-grade Hobart Shakespeareans as seen on EARNING PBS. Trade show and exhibit hall open to all L registrants. and don’t miss... The Schools We Want, The Schools We Need A conference-within-a-conference. Topics range from high school reform to differentiated instruction to school culture and more. For building and district administrators, teacher leaders, BOCES and professional association staff, school board members, PTA/PTO leaders, and state-level policy makers. AN ESSENTIAL SUMMIT FOR LEADERS IN EDUCATION!

March 24–25, 2006 TM Pier 94— The UnConvention Center New York City

Founding Sponsor is JPMorgan Chase. Premier Sponsors are The Prudential Foundation is a proud Media Sponsor of and the United Federation of Teachers. Celebration of Teaching and Learning, In partnership with NJN and CPTV Major Sponsors are Pearson Education, as are Edutopia, New York Post, NJEA, McGraw-Hill Education, New York State United Celebration ’06 presented in partnership with Eastern Suffolk, Nassau, Parent Guide, WRC Media, and Teachers, and Kumon Math and Reading Centers. Western Suffolk, Putnam/Northern Westchester, Rockland, and Tri-State public radio stations WBGO, Presenting Sponsors are Borders and Scholastic. Southern Westchester BOCES. WFUV, WNYC, and WSHU. FEBRUARY 2006 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ COLLEGES & GRADUATE SCHOOLS 11 Bank Street College of Education SPRING READING SERIES AT SARAH LAWRENCE COLLEGE Honors Irma & Paul Milstein & Sarah Lawrence’s Spring Reading Series, run- story collection, Reason to Live, which won the ning from February through April, presents sev- Commonwealth Club of California Silver Medal. President Augusta Souza Kappner eral prominent authors of fiction, non-fiction, and She is also the author of At the Gates of the poetry. Hosted by the College’s Graduate Writing Animal Kingdom, Tumble Home, and The Dog of Program the readings, which are free and open the Marriage: Stories. to the public, will be held in the Donnelley Film Wednesday, April 5: Harryette Mullen Theatre and Lecture Hall in the Heimbold Visual Mullen is the author of several books of poetry Arts Center and begin at 6:30 p.m. For additional including Trimmings, S*PeRm**K*T, Muse & information, please call 914-395-2412. Drudge, and Sleeping with the Dictionary. The Wednesday, February 9: Jane Kramer latter was nominated for a National Book Award, Kramer is the European correspondent for National Book Critics Circle Award, and Los The New Yorker and writes the “Letter from Angeles Times Book Prize. She is a recipi- Europe.” She is also the author of nine books, ent of an artist grant from the Foundation for including The Politics of Memory, a collection of Contemporary Performance Arts and a fellowship her writing from Germany in the years since the from the John Simon Guggenheim Foundation. Wall fell, and, most recently, Lone Patriot. She Wednesday, April 12: SLC Alumnae/i has received a National Book Award, a National Three SLC alumnae/i will return to the College Magazine Award, and an Emmy. to read selections from their most recent works Wednesday, February 15: C.K. Williams of fiction. Beth Webb Hart’s first novel, Grace Williams is the author of numerous books at Low Tide, will soon be followed by Adelaide of poetry, including The Singing, The Vigil, A Piper, to be published in June 2006. She lectures Dream of Mind, Repair, which won the 2000 on a variety of topics and has taught creative Pulitzer Prize, and Flesh and Blood, which writing on the college and high school level won the National Book Critics Circle Award. where she received two national awards from Wednesday, February 22: Antonya Nelson Scholastic, Inc. Justin Haythe’s first novel, The Nelson is the author of a number of short Honeymoon was Long Listed for the 2004 Man story collections, including In the Land of Men, Booker Prize. His short fiction has appeared in Family Terrorists, and The Expendables, winner Harper’s Magazine and is forthcoming in The of the Flannery O’Connor Award for her col- New England Review as well as in Zembla in lection titled Female Trouble. Nelson has been the UK. He is also an accomplished screenwriter, awarded a Guggenheim fellowship, a National most recently credited for writing the 2004 feature Endowment for the Arts grant, a Rea Award for film The Clearing. Kaui Hemmings is the author the Short Story, and was named by The New of House of Thieves, A Collection of Stories. Her Yorker as one of the “twenty young fiction writ- fiction appears in Story Quarterly, Zoetrope: All- ers for the new millennium.” Story, The Sun, Best American Non Required Wednesday, March 29: Amy Hempel Reading 2004 and Best American New Voices (L-R) Paul & Irma Milstein along with Augusta Souza Kappner, Hempel is well known for her works in fiction 2006. She is currently working on a novel while President, Bank Street College of Education and non-fiction. In 1985, she published her first editing the next issue of Story Quarterly.#

Recently, the Pierre Hotel was the site of an turned out in record numbers to acknowledge elegant dinner to honor the philanthropy of Irma and deliver panegyrics for Bank Street’s out- and Paul Milstein as well as a decade of President standing work in training new teachers, working Augusta Souza Kappner’s visionary leadership. with school communities and indeed “Leaving The President’s Medal and honorary doctorates No Child Behind.” by the Bank Street College of Education was Praises were delivered by Joel Klein, Dennis awarded to the Milsteins in honor of their support Woolcott, Richard Parsons and Sue Kaplan, of educational initiatives and their philanthropic Chair of the Board of Trustees of Bank Street leadership in New York City. while Vartan Gregorian, Regina Peruggi and sev- Paul Milstein, a renowned real estate devel- eral Milstein family members looked on. oper, pioneered the revival of New York’s Upper A quote of the founder of Bank Street, Lucy West Side in the 1960s and 1970s. He and his Sprague Mitchell, which graced the program wife, Irma Milstein, are just as renowned for their cover, was very much in evidence: “Our credo major philanthropic activities in NYC over the demands ethical standards as well as scientific past two decades. She said, “New York has been attitudes. Our work is based on the faith that good to us; we want to be good to New York.” human beings can improve the society they The education and corporate communities have created.”# 12 SPECIAL EDUCATION ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FEBRUARY 2006

manage and modify such behaviors. This is not true Group For ADHD of mainstream education teachers, who have different STUTTERERS FACE CHALLENGES Ask the clinician expertise. The law requires all personnel dealing with children IN OB NTERVIEWS Q: Our child is 12 years old and has been identified with special needs to be trained to work with J I employer and as a job candidate/interviewee who experiencing behavior and academic problems this population. This is especially true for teachers People who stutter may be harder workers stutters. “Listen to what applicants say, rather at home and at school since her academic career in Special Education. Unfortunately, due to lack of began. The public school recommended a special because they have to compensate for their dis- than how they say it.” resources, not every school has implemented this to ability, speech experts say. education program for her, which we declined. the same standard. In order to ensure that your child The research is conclusive that people who We were worried that by associating with other receives the best services that she is entitled to, it is That’s good news for employers. stutter perform successfully in a range of jobs children in the special education class, she might important for you as a parent to remain involved and “People who stutter often have a temperament that require communication skills, from sales to adopt behaviors that were even more extreme to advocate on behalf of your child. For example par- that’s perfectionist because many have to work medicine to public relations. than the ones she was already exhibiting. We felt ents can request periodic conferences with teachers to tirelessly to gain fluency,” said Barry Guitar, However, this may not be evident during the ini- that keeping our child in the mainstream educa- discuss strategies to manage the child’s behavior and Ph.D., professor of speech-language pathology at tial interview, perhaps the most stressful speaking tion was important for her positive social devel- learning style in the classroom. Sometimes it is neces- opment. We enrolled her in a private school. University of Vermont. Dr. Guitar has dealt with situation for everyone, much less someone who sary for parents to bring in outside experts to advocate his own stuttering on the job. stutters. The best way to approach an employee’s However, her issues were so severe that two on behalf of the child on a consulting basis. different private schools have asked us not to If employers dismiss candidates for employ- stuttering is through honest communication and Q: My child’s school insisted we test our child ment because of a speech impediment, they may by refraining from making assumptions about re-enroll her. We are now re-considering our for ADHD. The results of the school’s testing be losing an opportunity to hire a hard-working, job-related abilities and skills. options in the public education system. Do you indicated that my child does have ADHD. I am think that special education will minimize or aware that schools receive increased funding for dedicated employee. On the other hand, people who stutter have a exacerbate negative behaviors? What can you ADHD children and am suspicious of their find- “It’s important for employers to look beyond responsibility to be forthright with their employers suggest? ings, as I do not observe anything wrong with the disfluencies to see the underlying qualities of and should be willing to talk about how their stutter- A: It sounds like your child does indeed need some my child. What options do I have? the applicant,” adds Pat Garahan of San Diego, ing might impact particular areas of performance. support in order to be successful in school. It is impor- A: First, it is important to realize that no parent is who has been on both sides of the fence as an “Past research has shown that when you are tant to keep in mind that Special Education doesn’t obligated to accept the school’s recommendations. All open about stuttering to your employer, you are far have to be completely segregated. It is possible to utilize families are entitled to a second opinion. If you are not more comfortable in the workplace,” emphasizes the inclusion programs that public schools offer. Many satisfied with the school’s testing then you can appear consequences. Although you do not observe difficulties Jane Fraser, president of the Stuttering Foundation schools may offer resource rooms or small special educa- before an impartial hearing committee requesting the with your child at home he/she may be experiencing of America. “If you hide your stuttering, you not tion classes for academics, but inclusion with the rest of Department of Education to either re-test or to pro- them at school. Home life has different demands and the grade for enrichment programs (art, gym…). The only put yourself under tremendous pressure but vide an outside tester. Sometimes, depending on the structure than school life. Viewing the school as your also limit your effectiveness on the job.” IEP (Individual Education Plan) that is created for partner instead of an adversary will have a positive circumstances, an outside tester will be paid for by the Stuttering: Answers for Employers, a free bro- your child will determine what accommodations would Department of Education. impact on your child. It is important to keep commu- chure now in its all-new fourth edition for 2006, best fit your child’s needs. As for your concerns regarding the school taking nications open with the school and to work together to Although it is disconcerting to watch your child advantage of your child for financial gain; it is not in give your child a successful academic experience. has reached more than half a million employers socialize with others who exhibit equally negative or the schools best interest to commit fraud by falsifying Group for ADHD is a private mental health and people who stutter during the past six years. even worse behaviors, keep in mind that teachers in testing records of a student for the purpose of acquiring clinic in Manhattan, founded by Lenore Ruben, It’s the perfect tool to take to a job interview the Special Education track are specifically trained to increased funding. This is a Federal offense with serious LMSW, CHT, EMDR, and Orly Calderon, Psy.D., because it dispels the many myths surrounding a NYS licensed psychologist. stuttering, gives concrete facts about the disorder, The mission of Group For ADHD is to create and contains tips on how to handle stuttering in effective methods of coping with ADHD and LD the workplace. The Mary McDowell Teaching and Learning by focusing on the individual’s strengths. Readers can download Stuttering: Answers for Please email your questions to: Employers by clicking here (PDF), call toll-free Center [email protected] PRESENTS subject line: Ask the clinician continued on page 13 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS

� Curriculum Planning in the Real World $50 1 Evening Session Wed. Apr. 26 6:00 - 8:30pm � Basic Orton Gillingham $450 NewNew NewYorkNew YorkYork Branch York BranchBranch Branch of ofof of 2 Full Day Sessions Wed. Apr. 26 and Wed. May 3 9:30am - 3:30pm The TheInternationalTheThe InternationalInternational International Dyslexia DyslexiaDyslexia Dyslexia Association AssociationAssociation Association and 2 Evening Sessions Mon. May 8 and Tues. May 9 6:00 - 8:30pm 20 Bergen Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 � A More In-Depth Look at Learning Disabilities and rd rdrd rd Modifications for Success $125 Fri. Apr. 28 33 3333 Annual33 AnnualAnnual Annual Conference ConferenceConference Conference on Dyslexiaonon on DyslexiaDyslexia Dyslexia and andand and Phone: (718) 625-3939 1 Full Day Session 9:30am - 3:30pm Fax: (718) 625-1456 RelatedRelatedRelatedRelated Learning LearningLearning Learning Disabilities DisabilitiesDisabilities Disabilities Email: [email protected] � Promoting Positive Social Skills in the Classroom $50 Web: 1 Evening Session Wed. May 3 http://marymcdowell.org 6:00 - 8:30pm � Providing Organizational Systems for Notetaking, Study Skills and Homework $125 Fri. May 5 Monday,Monday,Monday,Monday, March MarchMarch March 13 & 1313 Tuesday,13 && &Tuesday,Tuesday, Tuesday, March MarchMarch March 14, 200614,14, 14, 20062006 2006 1 Full Day Session 9:30am - 3:30pm MarriottMarriottMarriottMarriott Marquis, Marquis,Marquis, Marquis, New NewNew York New YorkYork CityYork CityCity City

�� MONDAY MONDAY MONDAY MONDAY - KEYNOTE -- KEYNOTEKEYNOTE - KEYNOTE SPEAKER: SPEAKER:SPEAKER: SPEAKER: Catherine CatherineCatherine Catherine E. Snow, E.E. Snow, Snow, E.Ph.D. Snow, Ph.D.,Ph.D. Ph.D.,, , Henry Henry Henry Lee Henry Shattuck LeeLee Lee ShattuckShattuck ShattuckProfessor, Professor,Professor, Professor, Harvard HarvardHarvard GraduateHarvard GraduateGraduate Graduate School SchoolSchool of School Education, ofof Education, Education,of Education, �� Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridge, Cambridge, MA MAMA MA �� TUESDAY- TUESDAY-TUESDAY- TUESDAY- KEYNOTE KEYNOTEKEYNOTE KEYNOTE SPEAKER: SPEAKER:SPEAKER: SPEAKER: Edward EdwardEdward J. Edward Kame’enui, J.J. Kame’enui,Kame’enui, J. Kame’enui, Ph.D. Ph.D.,Ph.D. Ph.D.,, , Commissioner,National Commissioner,National Commissioner,National Commissioner,National Center CenterCenter for Center Special forfor SpecialforSpecial Education Special EducationEducation Education Research ResearchResearch Research United United United States United StatesStates Department States DepartmentDepartment Department of Education, ofof Education, Education,of Education, Institute InstituteInstitute ofInstitute Ed ucation ofof Ed Edofucation ucationEd ucation Sciences, Sciences, Sciences, Sciences, Washington, Washington,Washington, Washington, D.C. D.C.D.C. D.C. �� • Attend • • • AttendAttend the Attend premier thethe premierthepremier event premier ineventevent the event inNewin thethe in York NewtheNew Newregion YorkYork York regionregion in regionthe infieldin thethe in of fieldthefield field ofof of �� learning learning learning disabilities!learning disabilities!disabilities! disabilities! • Listen • • Listen• Listento notedListen toto notedexpertsnoted to noted expertsexperts in experts the inLDin thethe infield, LDtheLD covering LDfield,field, field, coveringcovering topicscovering topicssuchtopics topics suchsuch such �� as diagnosis, asas diagnosis, diagnosis,as diagnosis, teaching teachingteaching approaches,teaching approaches,approaches, approaches, math, math,spelling,math, math, spelling,spelling, ADHD, spelling, ADHD, ADHD, ADHD, comprehension, comprehension,comprehension, comprehension, social socialissues,social social issues,issues, early issues, intervention earlyearly early interventionintervention intervention and more. andand and more.more. more. �� • Visit • • our Visit•Visit exhibitsVisit ourour our exhibitsexhibits & exhibits learn && aboutlearnlearn & learn aboutteachingabout about teachingteaching resources,teaching resources,resources, resources, assistive assistiveassistive assistive technologies, technologies, technologies, technologies, schools schoolsschools with schools programs withwith with programsprograms programsfor students forfor studentsforstudents wi studentsth wiwithth wi th �� learning learninglearning disabilities,learning disabilities,disabilities, disabilities, and other andand and relatedotherother other relatedrelated items. related items.items. items. • Share • • Share•Shareinformation Share informationinformation information with colleagues, withwith with colleagues,colleagues, colleagues, professionals professionalsprofessionals professionals and others. andand and others.others. others. �� To downloadToTo downloaddownloadTo download the conference thethe theconferenceconference conference program programprogram ,program visit ,,our visitvisit, websitevisit ourour our websitewebsite at website www.nybida.or atat www.nybida.or www.nybida.orat www.nybida.org gg g

�� Or to haveOrOr toOrto a have haveprogramto have aa programprogram a sent program to sent sentyou, sent toto contact you,you, to you, contactcontact us contact at 212-691-1930, usus at atus 212-691-1930,212-691-1930, at 212-691-1930, ext. 13 ext.ext. ext. 1313 13 �� or via oremailor via viaor emaile-mailviaemail email e-mail e-mailus ate-mail [email protected] usus at atus [email protected]@nybida.or at [email protected] gg g �� • FEBRUARY 2006 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ SPECIAL EDUCATION 13

prone to be nervous, anxious, fearful, or shy. Stutterers Stutterers have same full range of personality continued from page 12 traits as non-stutterers. • People who stutter often have excellent com- 800-992-9392, e-mail [email protected], munications skills. Many are very often qualified or write the Stuttering Foundation for a copy at for and interested in positions requiring them to 3100 Walnut Grove Road, Suite 603, Memphis, deal with members of the public on a daily basis. TN 38111-0749. • Stuttering varies widely in different people Facts and Myths About Stuttering: and varies in the same person over different times • More than 3 million Americans stutter. and places. Like all of us, they often have “good” • People who stutter are as intelligent and well- and “bad” days with their speech. adjusted as those who don’t stutter. • For those who stutter, a job interview is per- • Stuttering is not the result of emotional con- haps the single most difficult speaking situation flict or fearfulness. they will ever encounter and is not indicative of • Don’t assume that people who stutter are how they would speak on the job.#

DIFFERENT ROADS TO LEARNING Different Roads to Learning has been helping children with autism learn and grow since 1995. When a child is diagnosed with a developmental disability, it is often an overwhelming experience, filled with conflicting information and confusion. There is an inherent need for parents to find resources that will help their child learn and grow to their fullest potential. As a complete resource of books, puzzles, and software, Different Roads to Learning has spent a decade providing the necessary tools to help children on the autism spectrum gain critical academic, social and daily living skills. When Different Roads to Learning founder Julie Azuma’s daughter, Miranda, was diagnosed with Autism, she sought out every possible resource that catered to her unique learning abilities. She came up with nearly nothing. Resources were scattered, and the few that existed were extremely difficult to locate. Different Roads to Learning was founded soon after, with the mission of providing affordable and appropriate educational materials for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The goal was to provide not only a comprehensive resource of hard to find teaching tools, but a caring and supportive environment that understood the needs of the autism community. A decade ago, autism was relatively rare in that it affected 1 out of 10,000 children. There was also very little available in terms of intervention and educational materials that specifically addressed the learning needs of the population. Today, the number of children affected is a startling 1 out of every 166. Because of the dire need to help these children, the catalog that began with 30 products now boasts over 300 items, which reach more than 30,000 people worldwide. The entire product line is based on Applied Behavior Analysis, a form of one-on-one teaching that has proven to be effective in helping autistic children gain skills. A child diagnosed with autism today now has the opportunity to learn and grow into a mainstream classroom. Children are improving everyday both academically and socially, as parents, teachers and therapists strive to help them realize their potential at school, at home and in the community. The child diagnosed with autism is in a very different place today, with hope and promise in their future. The goal at Different Roads to Learning is to continue to provide quality, innovative learning materials and to reach out to as many families in the autism community possible.#

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MURDERED BUT STILL ALIVE: CHANEY, GOODMAN, SCHWERNER FORTY-TWO YEARS LATER FAMILY MEMBERS SPEAK OUT

By EMILY SHERWOOD, Ph.D. Government, which Birmingham would be black, they would have June 21, 1964. Neshoba County, Mississippi. had informants who put you in a mental hospital…and if you had It is a story that has festered like an ugly wound advised people when said that 40 years later, the chief of police, who’s in the civil rights annals of this country, one of [Chaney, Goodman and holding down Bull Connors’ old job, would be the unimaginable atrocities that spread like a Schwerner] would be a black woman, they would have put you in the plague during Freedom Summer 1964. As part coming to the church. far reaches of the mental ward! But at the same of a massive black voter registration campaign The Sovereignty time, there are more segregated classrooms in the in Mississippi led by CORE (Congress of Racial Commission had paid United States today than there were when Brown Equality), three civil rights workers—black agents and informants v. Board of Education ended that in 1954. The dif- Mississippian James Earl Chaney (21) and white and they did horrible ference between the mean wage of white people New Yorkers Andrew Goodman(20) and Michael things. They asked and the mean wage of black people is now greater (Mickey) Schwerner(24)—were on their way back bankers to call in loans than it was twenty years ago. So there have been to the CORE office after investigating the fire- from people who tried real advances and real setbacks since then. bombing of a black church (one of 37 churches (l-r) James Hood, Mississippi State Attorney General; Rita to register to vote. They Ben Chaney: There are still a lot of young and 30 black homes that had been torched by Schwerner Bender; Marc Duncan, Noshoba County District contacted landowners black people who don’t understand the system or Attorney; Carolyn Goodman; David Goodman angry white mobs that summer.) Deputy sheriff who would then kick how the system operates and the sacrifices that Cecil Price arrested the three young men on sharecroppers off the were made so they can enjoy and be included speeding charges and held them in the Neshoba determined to be a fourteen year old boy who land. Without there being truth, there can’t be rec- in the system. So our focus has been to educate jail. They were released later that evening, only was never identified…and they were black, these onciliation. The day after the jury verdict in the and empower young people. We’re going to do to be ambushed and shot to death on a deserted three people, yet nobody ever paid any attention Killen case came in, the Governor of Mississippi another freedom ride this summer. It reveals his- road by Ku Klux Klansmen who had been tipped to them. It was the efforts of many people over said, ‘Now we can have closure.’ We haven’t tory to young people and lets them participate in off to their whereabouts. Their bodies were dis- a period of many years that brought about some had opening yet! Yes, it’s troublesome that only that history. [In June 2004, Chaney led a caravan covered 44 days later, buried in a shallow earthen change. It was the lynchings that went on over one person was indicted, but I don’t see that as of buses on “Freedom Summer 2004 Ride for dam, after a massive FBI search. many years, it was the fire hoses in Birmingham, being as important to the national consciousness Justice,” conducting a vigorous voter registra- October 21, 1967. Based on the testimony of it was the church bombings…It was the march in as opening up the extent of mis- tion drive targeting young Klansman James Jordon, seven men (including Selma. It was all the people who stood in voter conduct which caused all of these adults aged 18-30 and edu- Jordon and Sheriff Price) were found guilty of registration lines and were beaten for it and lost terrible things to happen, not just cating them about the civil conspiring to deprive Chaney, Goodman, and their jobs. It was the sharecroppers who were these three murders. rights struggle.] Schwerner of their civil rights. They were sen- kicked off the land. So you see, it was all these Ben Chaney: I think the trial How should schools be tenced to prison terms ranging from three to ten things that raised the consciousness of the coun- was a farce. Even though…Killen educating their students years but none served more than six. try, at least for a while. was definitely guilty, there are about the civil rights June 21, 2005. On the forty- David Goodman: What got other people who are just as guilty, movement? first anniversary of the crime, people to care was that people only they’re rich and powerful, Carolyn Goodman: 80 year old Edgar Ray Killen, who were white got killed. The and the State Attorney General has Children should be encour- a Ku Klux Klan member and powerful media was focused on not moved against those individu- Carolyn and David aged to be active partici- part-time preacher, was found white America who didn’t give als…Killen was a scapegoat. Goodman pants in life. [Students guilty of three counts of man- a damn. [This incident] shocked Stephen Schwerner: I’m con- should be learning] that slaughter and sentenced to 60 the rest of the country into real- vinced that there were connections between the which gives them an opportunity to open doors. years in prison, the maximum izing that whites can kill whites. FBI and state law enforcement and that state law Stephen Schwerner: What I would like to see Andrew Goodman, James term possible, for orchestrat- Earl Chaney & Michael I was shocked that it had to hap- enforcement was essentially sanctioning terror taught is an appreciation for the thousands of ing the deaths of the three Schwerner pen this way for people to care. against the civil rights workers and black people people, most of them black (but not exclusively), civil rights workers. (Goodman was 17 years old in general. I think it’s important that those con- most of them women (but not exclusively), Family members of James when his brother died.) nections come out. So if I had my druthers, whom nobody will ever know, who risked life, Earl Chaney (brother Ben), Andrew Goodman Stephen Schwerner: The most important thing that would be more important for me than other limb, jobs, family, houses, and property for the (mother Carolyn and brother David), and Michael to get across is that if two of the three people people being tried. civil rights movement. Most of these people are Schwerner (widow Rita Schwerner Bender and hadn’t been white, we wouldn’t be having this Have things gotten a lot better since 1964? anonymous. We are so involved in the “great brother Stephen) spoke to Education Update conversation. David Goodman: LBJ used this case to pass man” theory of history, for the lack of a better about their views on the civil rights battles waged What do you think of the Edgar Ray Killen the 1965 Voting Rights Act [outlawing the use term. Much as I admire Martin Luther King and in the South in the sixties and whether the ideals verdict? Has justice been served? of literacy tests and poll taxes for voter registra- other great leaders, if you teach that it takes a for which their loved ones fought and died have David Goodman: The issue was not Edgar tion.] But the case was still politically unpopular great person to lead a movement, then that tells been realized in America today. Ray Killen. He was just a poor schlemiel who in Mississippi. In 1989, Mississippi Secretary everyone else, ‘Well, you’re not great, so you How did the murders of James Earl Chaney, had a gun and organized those poor unfortunate of State Dick Molpus apologized to the three don’t have to do anything.’ Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner souls. They knew not what they were doing…. families [of Chaney, Goodman and Schwerner] Rita Schwerner Bender: Don’t teach civil change the consciousness of this nation? They weren’t responsible. They just pulled the publicly. But he then lost [in a race for governor rights history as something that’s over and done Rita Schwerner Bender: It is important to trigger. They were puppets of the legislature and in 1995] to a Republican [Kirk Fordice] who said, with. There’s a connection between what we live remember that many people were killed and the governor. ‘Never apologize.’ Society at large didn’t want with now and the inevitable legacy of poverty, most were not noticed. These three murders, in Rita Schwerner Bender: We need to understand to hear it. of Jim Crow, of slavery. History is important to isolation, were clearly painful to the families. But that this was governmental misconduct. These Stephen Schwerner: It’s a mixed bag. There teach because it’s a continuum, but there’s no one of the terrible things that doesn’t get talked were not just a bunch of rogue thugs. It’s easy are more African Americans in the Mississippi point talking about the past unless you under- about very much is that, while they were looking to say, ‘This was the Klan.’ The Klan was law State Legislature today than in any other state in stand that it’s how we got where we are. for [Chaney, Goodman and Schwerner], there enforcement in the state of Mississippi. The Klan the United States. In 1963, when the Birmingham Are there any lessons you’ve taken away from were two young men found in the Mississippi was getting its information from the Sovereignty [Alabama] demonstrations were going on, if the tragedies of the sixties on a personal level? River, and there was the partial body of what was Commission, which was a branch of the State you had said that 20 years later, the mayor of Ben Chaney: Never give up.

E TAND IN RIBUTE TO OSA ARKS Compiled By WLIZA YOUNG S progressed and ultimately T the Supreme Court secondary education in Alabama R and involved in Pation of the Rosa and Raymond Parks Institute Rosa Parks—international icon of the civil ruled racial segregation on public transportation the local chapter of the NAACP together with her for Self-Development, founded in 1987 by Parks rights movement—a seamstress at the time she as illegal. husband, Raymond Parks, where they struggled in honor of her husband, who passed away in unwaveringly refused to give up her seat to a The philosophy of Parks’ mother, Leona to improve the condition of African Americans 1977. The foundation holds annual programs for white passenger, spun the threads of the beginning McCauley—a teacher— as well as her early in the south. teens entitled “Pathways to Freedom,” where of the modern civil rights movement, according education played an instrumental role in the Parks’ past heroic actions on the Montgomery youth have the opportunity to learn the history of to many historians. child’s activities. The theme of self-worth was bus led to personal hardship; she faced many the civil rights movement. Parks’ courageous actions on that first day of underscored by McCauley as well as at the employment difficulties ultimately continuing The nation mourned the passing of Parks this December 1955 spurred the formation of the Montgomery Industrial School for girls, where her work as a seamstress, and in 1965, she was past October, and homage was paid to her, placing Montgomery Improvement Association, led by Parks was enrolled at the age of 11. hired as secretary to U.S. Representative John her casket in the United States capitol rotunda, an Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., which called for a Her passion for education and involvement in Conyers in Detroit, Michigan, where she worked honor generally bestowed upon Presidents. boycott of the *city-owned bus company. The human rights activities dated back to early adult- up to her retirement in 1988. Her actions leave an indelible print of all that is attention of the world was held as the boycott hood. She was a student at Teachers College for Parks’ legacy lives on today through the cre- moral, dignified and valiant.# 15 COMMEMORATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH FEBRUARY 2006 | EDUCATION UPDATE

DR. MAYME CLAYTON: ARTIST YINKA SHONIBARE: 40 YEARS OF COLLECTING REFLECTIONS ON THE FRICAN MERICAN ORKS JOURNEYS OF OUR ANCESTORS A By LIZA YOUNG A book to be authored W by an African American In an interview with Avery Clayton on February writer, Phillis Wheatley, in 1773. The book, 2 in Los Angeles, it was clear he had found his described by Avery as the “star of the collection,” mission as part art educator (which he was in the is entitled Poems On Various Subjects, Religious public schools of Pasadena), part preservationist, And Moral. The collection also includes 9,500 part historian and part his mother’s son as stew- sound recordings; 75,000 photographs which ard of the largest collection on the West Coast of date back to the mid-1800s; and the largest black African American works in literature, music, and film collection in the world dating back to 1916, movies as well as photographs, manuscripts, and including works by Oscar Micheaux, the most memorabilia. prolific black film maker of After 40 years of collect- all time, who was responsible ing during her tenure as for the first Black film—The librarian at USC and then Exile, 1931. at UCLA, Dr. Clayton’s The strong family continuum collection will at long last for the Claytons is evident: “I find its well-deserved rest- was born to my mother to carry ing place at the Mayme A. on her work,” says Avery, who Clayton Library in Culver also credits his father for fos- City, California (part tering his dream of being an Yinka Shonibare: Works from the Permanent sculptures are displayed alongside objects from of Los Angeles), which artist. A graduate of UCLA Collection is the fourth installation in the Nancy Cooper-Hewitt’s Product Design and Decorative will be a research based and an artist of reknown, and Edwin Marks Gallery exhibition series Arts, Drawings, Prints, and Graphic Design, and library and cultural cen- Avery holds credentials which devoted to showcasing Copper-Hewitt, National Wall Coverings departments, as well as from the ter. This dream has come make him a prime candidate Design Museum’s permanent collection of rare-book collection in the Museum’s National to fruition aided by three for facilitating the creation of 250,000 objects spanning twenty-three centuries. Design Library. generations of Claytons, the Mayme A. Clayton Library For this exhibition, prominent Nigerian-British Shonibare is a self-described “postcolonial including Avery who is & Cultural Center. This will artist Yinka Shonibare MBE focuses his attention hybrid.” Born in London and raised in Nigeria, the Executive Director be an institute for showcasing on the Museum’s diverse collection of travel- he often explores the historical integration of of Western States Black black culture through the trea- related objects from Europe, Asia, and America disparate cultures in his sculpture, photography, Research and Educational sured collection and Avery’s ranging from the sixteenth century through the and, most recently, film. Through his ironic and Center (WSBREC), which artistic vision. His brothers, twentieth centuries. highly imaginative combinations, Shonibare, a maintains the Mayme A. Clayton Collection of Lloyd and Renee, also take an active role in the Shonibare has created specifically for this finalist for the prestigious Turner Prize in 2004, African Americana as well as the cross-univer- process, preserving the music and sports collec- installation two life-size sculptures of the examines cultural stereotypes of class, race, sity cooperation of Pepperdine, UCLA and USC. tions, respectively. The Cultural Center will soon Museum’s founding sisters, Sarah and Eleanor gender, and identity. Transportation represents USC will work on digitizing the collection. be open to the public. Hewitt, wearing late Victorian-style costumes “fantasy fulfillment,” says Shonibare, adding Dr. Mayme A. Clayton, the daughter of pioneers When asked what some of the challenges were fashioned from his signature contemporary that, fundamentally, “travel is something people in Van Buren, Arkansas, was proud of her father for himself and for his mother, Avery indicated pseudo-African batik textiles. The playful, visu- do to improve themselves.” The artist hopes that being the only black business owner of a general that it was not easy to get people within their ally arresting a theme the artist has continually Museum visitors, upon viewing this exhibition, store, dealing successfully with both black and own community to embrace the importance of addressed throughout his career. The figures of will reflect on their own personal and travel his- white communities. Her parents instilled in the preserving culture, which is “the measure of a the Hewitt sisters are placed on stilts, symbol- tories and the journeys of their ancestors.# young Mayme, a love of culture as well as a sense people.” In his quest to reach out to many com- izing, according to Shonibare, how the sisters Reprinted with permission of Smithsonian’s of adventure. After graduating from Lincoln munities, Avery has partnered with the Skirball “stand tall over their contemporaries in terms of Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum. University in Nebraska in 1945, Mayme decided Institute in a Jewish-Black Film Festival and their taste and adventurous spirit.” Shonibare’s not to return home but go instead to New York is partnering with the Huntington Library in where she met her husband, married and moved Pasadena for a major Harlem Renaissance exhibit to Los Angeles. During the 60s, UCLA asked in 2008 preceded by an exhibit running from her to develop a library for the Black Studies February 16 to April 2006. Department, and she became keenly aware that In speaking of his mother, Avery indicated Dr. N NTERVIEW WITH the attainment of out-of-print materials was not Clayton was “ahead of her time. We are only 42 A I valued by the administration. The mission of pre- years under protection of the law; most of our serving out-of-print African-American materials existence during that time was based on survival. EOFFREY ANADA fused with her unwavering and passionate inter- Now it’s time for people to embrace this and EducationG Update (EU): How C and violence. I overcame them est in preserving black culture. understand this, and they do.” did you choose your career? through a combination of meet- Avery recalled how “the collection came to His advice to youth is to live up to the gifts Geoffrey Canada (GC): ing a few individuals who took take over the house,” and had to be expanded you’ve been given and “Be the best person you Growing up in the South Bronx, an interest in me and made me to the garage and eventually to storage areas in can be at any given moment.” That’s a motto that I knew very early—at the age of feel like I was special—and luck. Culver City and Los Angeles. In over 40 years, the Claytons continually live up to. Look forward 11—that I wanted to help children I was lucky enough to not be Dr. Clayton’s collection grew to 20,000 rare and to learning more about the incredible Mayme A. in the inner cities, to combine around when my friends decided out-of-print books—a compilation which includes Clayton Collection in Avery’s upcoming book: education with social services. to do something that might have the only known signed copy of the first published Mayme Clayton’s America. # EU: What was a turning point landed me in jail. Getting a great in your carcareer?eer? education—at Bowdoin College GC: A major turning point in and Harvard University—also my life was going to high school was instrumental in helping me iinn Wyandanch,Wyandanch, L Longong I Island,sland, overcome my challenges. instead of Morris High School in EU: Who were your men- The Bronx in New Y Yorkork City City.. I tors? POEMS ON VARIOUS SUBJECTS, don’don’tt know if I would have gotten GC: When I was a boy, a young the education in The Bronx, or if I man named Mike taught me how ELIGOUS ND ORAL would have grown or developed as I did. to survive on the streets of New York City. R ‘Twas mercy brought A me from my paganM land, EU: What achievements are you proudest As a professional, John Shlien—a professor at Taught my beknighted soul to understand of? Harvard—was a great guiding light for me. In That there’s a God, that there’s a Savior too: GC: My proudest achievement is creating my later career, Marian Wright Edelman helped the Harlem Children’sChildren’s Zone Project, where we me immeasurably. Once I redemption neither sought nor knew. now have a “conveyor belt of care,” for kids. EU: What is your advice to young people Some view our sable race with scornful eye, WeWe start with them literally before they are today? “Their color is a diabolic dye.” born—by of offeringfering parenting workshops at The GC: Get a college education. The employment Remember Christians; Negroes, black as Cain, Baby College—and continue to work with them picture in this country is growing more and more May be refin’d, and join th’ angelic train. through college. complicated due to the exporting of jobs around —Phillis Wheatley, 1773 EU: What were the challenges you faced and the world. Given the increasing global competi- First published black poet in US how did you overcomeovercome them? tion for jobs, a college degree is a minimum GC: The two biggest challenges were poverty requirement. 16 COLLEGES & GRADUATE SCHOOLS ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FEBRUARY 2006

PREPARING FOR THE COLLEGE MOVIE REVIEWS INTERVIEW: AN INSIDER’S VIEW LIKE TO EXPLORE SPACE?

By KEITH BERMAN, M.Ed., M.S.Ed. Admissions Officer will have nothing else to SEE ROVING MARS THE COLLEGE INTERVIEW DOES “NOT write about you. REALLY COUNT” Sit up straight, make eye contact, and dress A great misconception among the college- nicely bound is that the college interview is not an When a student enters the interview with a important part of selective college admissions. In Coke in hand, untied sneakers, and a baseball fact, I heard the phrase “this doesn’t really count cap, it is, on occasion, an attempt to make an anyway” during one of the hundreds of college iconoclastic statement about who they are. I interviews I have given at Harvard and Yale. would recommend using what you say to reflect In actuality, admissions offices create sophisti- your opinions and personality. cated scoring rubrics for interviews. They gener- POINTERS ally measure the same two things: personality No lying: do not guess what we want to hear (how engaging you are) and intellectual ability There is nothing worse than having someone (how well you can explain your ideas). While say that they love to write for the school newspa- there is nothing in particular that can earn or lose per, only to find out one question later that they you points, the following sections on preparation, haven’t written a single article for it, or that they presentation, and pointers will help you express love history, but don’t know the Axis from the yourself to admissions officers effectively. Allies. The most common bad answer is saying Photo by: JPL/NASA/Caltech Renderings by Maas Digital (c) Buena Vista Pictures Distribution, All Rights Reserved PREPARATION that “student government” is your favorite activ- By JAN AARON Have an answer to the prompt, “tell me a little ity, but not being able to give a single example of They sent back amazing images proving that bit about yourself” something meaningful your student government Hey, student science geeks, Roving Mars, the there was once water on Mars, a reliable indicator Also consider related “little bits” about your does (“y’know, the prom and stuff”). new IMAX presentation, will put you in the of signs of life. “family,” “town,” “school,” and “favorite activ- Generally, avoid talking about the following mood to dream about your future jobs. Written Fascinating panoramic planet images have been ity/subject.” You are going to be asked about people: and directed by George Butler (Pumping Iron assembled and enhanced from pictures taken by who you are, what you do and like. It is very Your favorite teacher – Statements like “I like and Shackelton’s Antarctic Adventure), Roving tiny cameras placed on the rovers. These red uncomfortable when I hear back, “I don’t really History best because I like Mr. Johnson; if he Mars is the latest IMAX spectacular from Walt planet pictures are some of the documentary’s do that much,” or “I’m not sure I have a favor- taught woodshop, I would like that class best Disney Pictures. best moments, especially when projected on a 10- ite,” and this hurts both scores. If you have a instead” reflect that you do not critically think Propelled by a bouncy score by Philip Glass, story high screen. They are augmented by clever ‘tie’ between two or three activities, say so, and about your academic life the film is based on Steve Squyres’s report on computer animation showing the rovers’ travels choose on to talk about. Your boyfriend/girlfriend – when someone asks NASA’s successful 2003 landing of two Mars and surface of the planet, an artifice so seamless, Do some research: know why you are there, about you, and you talk about your significant rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, and shows the it will no doubt be over the head of some younger and have questions ready other, it often sounds as if what you do with him/ painstaking preparations that went into it. viewers. Kate Timlin of the Georgetown Admissions her defines who you are. This is not an uncom- Not too thrillingly, the documentary starts with While there’s no disputing the great scientific Office says “you can best prepare for an inter- fortable thing to colleges, who want to know anxious looking scientists and engineers star- triumph of the mission the film depicts, Roving view by asking yourself why do I want to do what you have to offer. ing intently at their computer monitors. It gets Mars also is compelling big-screen entertainment here? If you have no reason to give, that reflects Substantiate your opinions well more exciting when it shows the testing sessions with undeniable education value! (G; documen- on who you are.” There are really no great An interview is often made or broken based that included overcoming many obstacles like tary, 40 minutes) answers to the question “why do you want to go on how you defend an idea. Informing the parachutes that repeatedly malfunctioned. The For all kinds of helpful information in a teach- to Yale,” but there are bad answers. Among my interviewer that you like a particular politician results of the rovers’ journey, which took more er’s guide, go to: http://disney.go.com/disneypic- least favorite answers are “my mom wants me to because “he is always on TV” may be honest, but than seven months, were better than envisioned: tures/rovingmars/# go,” “it is a good school,” and “because it is so it is not a well-reasoned position. Conversely, old.” Prepare 5-10 minutes of questions that go explaining that you like to study Ancient Greek beyond information on the website. because “it is a different way of thinking – the PRESENTATION logic in the syntax, the variety of semantic mean- No self-deprecation, even if it is in jest ings for each form, and the lack of prescribed Breaking the Color Barrier It is very tough to appreciate a student who word order” is more compelling. speaks negatively of themselves. It instead cre- Keith Berman, M.Ed., M.S.Ed., is the President ates an uncomfortable distance between you and of Options for College (www.optionsforcollege. in Sports: Glory Road the interviewer (e.g. “I really stink at hockey, com), an independent college counseling service, By JAN AARON but I am on the team anyway”). If you spend and a doctoral candidate at Harvard Graduate If you were a contestant on “Jeopardy,” the entire time talking about your flaws the School of Education. and you chose the “Sports” category, you might get this question? What school won the NCAA championship in 1966? The answer? The Texas Western Miners, (now University of Texas at El Paso), with an all black lineup against the all- white University of Kentucky Wildcats. The game also made social history. Glory Road, a Jerry Bruckheimer film, is the appealing story of how the winning team’s coach, Don Haskins (played with intensity by Josh Lucas) broke an unspo- ken barrier, changed college basketball, and perhaps influenced the desegregation movement in this country. Haskins wasn’t into social engineering, he knew that black players, already playing The actors do a fine job of capturing each at major colleges up North, could help him win player’s personality that contributes to his skill games against all white Southern conferences. on the court. Derek Luke stars as standout guard Plus he had no budget to lure top flight white Bobby Joe Hill and Haskins’ biggest challenge, players, so he traveled North and offered scholar- as the coach must make him a disciplined player, ships to black city kids in New York, Indiana and without inhibiting his skills. Damaine Radcliffe, elsewhere, bringing them wide eyed to the open as Willie “Scoops” Cager, must overcome a spaces of Texas. heart ailment to get back into the game. Austin Directed by James Gartner, in a fine feature Nichols, as Jerry Armstrong, a white player, must debut, and written by Christopher Cleveland use humor to adjust his social attitudes. The film and Bettina Gilois, the script makes it seem as if depicts the racial indignities the team suffered Haskins’ big win took place in his first season, on the road. It also treats them as college kids when actually it was his sixth. It also includes out for fun. lovely moments, like a mother pleading for her All the game footage is well shot and edited, son to play. Mainly, it’s the story of how a down- the cinematography by John Toon and Jeffrey at-the heels girls’ basketball coach, Haskins, Kimball is excellent, and the music and sets per- gets an out-of-the blue offer to coach at Texas fectly evoke the 60’s. During the closing credits, Western, and goes on from there to change the the players reminisce about the big contest.# (PG; world beyond. 109 minutes.)# 5X13 5/31/05 11:20 AM Page 1 FEBRUARY 2006 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ COLLEGES & GRADUATE SCHOOLS 17

Ford Foundation Awards $100,000 Each To LaGuardia Community College & Queens College For Religious Tolerance Projects Two Queens Institutions Among Only 26 Chosen diversity in American life. Nationwide LaGuardia Community College and The fourth and culminating project is a campus- Queens College of the City University of New wide event that will bring together students, faculty, York have each received a $100,000 grant from and community members who have participated the Ford Foundation to implement programs that in the three other activities. During this all-day will engage members of the college and surround- event, students will share their digital stories, facing ethnic communities in a dialogue on religious ulty will showcase their newly developed teaching issues. Other awardees among the group of 26 were approaches, and members of the study circles will Barnard College, Yale University, University of describe their work and plans for future activities. Michigan, and University of Wisconsin. The Queens College Project The new LaGuardia program is entitled Let The Middle East and America: Clash of Civilizations Everyone Remain Free. “This project will prepare or Meeting of the Minds, begun in fall 2004, initially LaGuardia faculty and staff to better address the brought together 15 Queens College undergradu- No generation issues of religious pluralism in the contemporary ates—Jews, Muslims, and Christians—for research world and on our campus,” says President Gail O. and discussion of the Arab-Israeli conflict. They Mellow. “And it will allow our college and the reli- were joined by an assistant principal and seven better reflects gious community the chance to discuss these sensi- history and tive topics in a thoughtful and constructive way.” world studies teachers from five Queens high the American Dream The Queens College project, The Middle East and schools. Keenly aware that the Middle East conflict America: Clash of Civilizations or Meeting of the Minds, is a volatile topic, the teachers used their experi- builds upon History Professor Mark Rosenblum’s ence in the course to create their own curricula and than ours. nationally acclaimed pilot project to promote under- programs. Non-matriculating senior citizens also standing and informed discussion about the Middle participated in this unique multi-ethnic, multi-reli- East conflict on campus, in high schools, and in the gious, and multi-generational course. larger community. Says President James Muyskens, The curriculum included films, readings, and “Colleges and universities have a moral, social, and lectures by guest speakers representing different Generation Baruch. educational imperative to probe difficult issues and find viewpoints. Among the nationally prominent guests solutions to seemingly intractable problems. Professor were Omar Dajani, former senior legal adviser and Rosenblum’s project is doing just that by stimulating member of the Palestinian delegation at Camp We may not look like we’re part of the same dialogue and creating an extraordinary learning com- David in 2000 and 2001, and Janine Zacharia, munity. It is deeply gratifying that the Ford Foundation Washington bureau chief for the English-language generation, but while we grew up at different times, has recognized these accomplishments and the value Israeli daily The Jerusalem Post. of moving our project to the next level.” A critical component of the course was an assign- Both LaGuardia, which is called “The World’s ment Professor Rosenblum calls “Walk in the we come from the same place.We attended a college Community College,” and Queens College are Others’ Shoes.” After taking a test that revealed ideal institutions to explore religious issues as they their outlook on Middle East issues, the students whose campus was New York. And we got there via are located in Queens, the nation’s most ethni- spent the next 10 weeks conducting research and, cally diverse county Students from more than 150 ultimately, presenting a persuasive case for the the IRT, not the LIE, which was good, because it’s nations, representing nearly every religion, can be opposite perspective. “This approach is Rubik’s found on their campuses. cube education, looking at the struggle from many The funding source is the Ford Foundation’s angles,” says Professor Rosenblum. easier to do your homework hanging on to a subway Difficult Dialogues initiative, designed to help insti- The program continued throughout the fall 2005 tutions of higher education promote an open cam- semester, greatly expanding its outreach to public strap than a steering wheel. We all worked hard, pus environment where sensitive subjects can be high school teachers and students. On Election Day discussed in the face of reports of growing intoler- alone, 45 teachers from four boroughs attended became the first members of our families to graduate ance. The goal is to help institutions address these presentations and discussions at the college, cul- challenges through academic and campus pro- minating with a visit to a multimedia photo exhibi- grams that enrich learning, encourage new scholar- tion, This Land to Me: Some Call it Palestine, Others from college, and pulled ourselves up by our own ship, and engage students and faculty in construc- Israel. The exhibit in the Godwin-Ternbach Museum tive dialogue about contentious political, religious, explores the conflict through life-size photographs bootstraps to achieve success. And if that sounds like racial, and cultural issues. and audio, first-person narratives of a cross section “Colleges and universities are uniquely suited to of Israelis and Palestinians. expand knowledge, understanding, and discussion Professor Michael Krasner, a Queens College the American Dream at work, it is. It’s what brings us of controversial issues that affect us all,” said Susan political scientist and co-founder of The Middle East V. Berresford, president of the Ford Foundation. and America: Clash of Civilizations or Meeting of the together and makes us one generation. “The selected projects illustrate the thoughtful and Minds project, will be co-teaching the spring 2006 creative ways institutions are promoting intellectu- course, which will examine the role of mass media Now we need your help so that future genera- ally rigorous scholarship and open debate that is in portraying the conflict. Guest speakers from the essential to higher education.” New York Times and other media outlets will gener- The LaGuardia Project ate discussion in the class. Students and teachers tions can join Generation Baruch and help keep the The college’s winning proposal is a four-part will also have access to a permanent reference center program. First, the college will reach out to the of original print and video source materials on the dream going. community and establish “study circles,” bringing conflict that is being developed at Queens College. together campus and community representatives. “This grant comes at an opportune moment in As many as 20 study circles—made up of eight to 12 the life of our Middle East education project, which Above, from left: Max Berger, Class of ’68, Senior Partner, Bernstein, people each—will meet for five two-hour sessions is designed to give hope without delusion,” says Litowitz, Berger and Grossmann • JoAnn Ryan, Class of ’79, MS ’83, to talk about the relationship between educational Rosenblum. “We have been overwhelmed—in the President and CEO, Con Edison Solutions • Alan Liang, Class of ’05, institutions and the religious community. positive sense—with requests from high schools Baruch BBA in Finance, CUNY Honors College • Evelyn Taveras, Class “Discussions will examine the sources of tension, citywide to provide teachers with curricular and of ’96, Baruch BBA in Marketing Management, Senior Media Planner, opportunities for collaboration, and the American other educational tools to help students understand Della Femina Rothschild Jeary & Partners traditions of religious freedom and academic free- the conflict in all its complexity. The timing of dom,” says Rosemary Talmadge, the project coordi- the grant is also symbolic, because the Israeli and nator who will oversee the study circles. “Through Palestinian elections will soon occur, potentially these candid conversations, each study circle will providing a plausible exit from the murder and strive to develop strategies for community action mayhem. The Ford Foundation funds will allow and ways to build a productive relationship with us to implement our growing project at this very For more information on how you can support future generations, the diverse religious communities of Queens.” critical time.” please call 212.802.2900. Or visit www.baruch.cuny.edu/bcf/. The second way the college will address the issue Mark Rosenblum, director of the Michael of religious diversity is by having students video- Harrington Center for Democratic Values and tape personal narratives that describe their religious Social Change at Queens College, has been directly upbringing and experiences. This process, called involved in Middle East conflict resolution since digital storytelling, will allow hundreds of students the 1980s. to explore the diversity of religious experiences in This fall the Clinton Global Initiative selected Queens. another Middle East project designed by Professor “Through digital storytelling,” says Ms. Talmadge, Rosenblum as one of two initial programs focus- “students will be able to explore and share their ing on religion and conflict resolution. Professor religious experiences in an open and intellectual Rosenblum has met with President George W. Bush, environment.” Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, King Abdullah The initiative’s third component will have fac- II, and the late Yasir Arafat. His peace efforts include The City University of New York ulty design new educational materials on religious organizing and moderating six international confer- diversity in America that will be integrated into ences with PLO and Israeli leaders; founding the existing curricula. Faculty will also be invited Israeli-Palestinian Youth Dialogue program; and to participate in a yearlong faculty development authoring a series of highly regarded insider reports, seminar where they will explore the role of religious “Negotiations Watch” and “Jerusalem Watch.”# 18 COLLEGES & GRADUATE SCHOOLS ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FEBRUARY 2006

Tidbits for the Mind. By Alfred S. Posamentier Deanʼs Column (Prometheus Books, 2003) see: www.prometheus- NY BIRD CLUB EVENTS continued from page 8 books.com. If you wish to learn more about π, see: π: A Biography of the world’s Most Mysterious Saturday, February 11th applied the biblical analysis technique (still used Number, By Alfred S. Posamentier (Prometheus 1 - 4 pm today) called gematria, where the Hebrew let- Books, 2004) see: www.prometheusbooks.com. 242 E. 53 St, New York, NY ters are given their appropriate numerical values Dr. Alfred S. Posamentier is Dean of the School next to Quest Bookstore according to their sequence in the Hebrew alpha- of Education at City College of NY, author of (between 2nd & 3rd Avenues) bet, to the two spellings of the word for “line over 40 books on math, and member of the NYS Nature’s The Real Macaw measure” and found the following. Standards Committee on Math. Video Presentation The letter values are: = 100, = 6, and = NATURE takes you to the deepest enclaves of ה ז ק 5. Therefore, the spelling for “line measure” in 1 the Amazon for a first-hand look at macaws. Kings 7:23 is = 5 + 6 + 100 = 111, while in Everyone loves macaws. Playful, intelligent, Phi Delta Kappa קזה 2 Chronicles 4:2 the spelling = 6 + 100 = 106. continued from page 9 beautiful, they are the stars of parrot parks קז He then took the ratio of these two values: and zoos, and the cherished pets of devoted 111 = 1.0472 (to four decimal places), parent who named Ms. Ciccone as a sensitive and owners around the world. All of which makes 106 caring human being who helped save her son. them prime targets for poachers, who can make which he considered the necessary correction Loretta Caputo was named Inclusion Principal enormous profits from illegal sales of the birds. factor, for when it is multiplied by 3, which is of the Year at PS 134, Manhattan while Dr. Thousands are smuggled from the wild each believed to be the value of π stated in the Bible, Cathy Rikhye, Director of Inclusive Education year, and many die in the process. one gets 3.1416, which is π correct to four deci- for District 75 was named Educator of the Year. In the forests of South America, several species mal places! “Wow!!!” is a usual reaction. Such Hundreds of teachers, supervisors, family mem- of macaw are severely endangered. But there is accuracy is quite astonishing for ancient times. bers and parents gathered to pay homage to these hope on the horizon. Dr. Charlie Munn, a wealthy To support this notion, have students take string women of courage, sensitivity and vision for their American who is also a leading ornithologist and to measure the circumference and diameter of contributions to the lives of challenged children. world expert onN parrots, has begun a campaign Speaking Presentation - Feather Destructive several circular objects and find their quotient. Officers of Phi Delta Kappa giving awards and to promote eco-tourism as a means of saving the Behavior They will most likely not get near this four-place paying tribute were Joe DiLeo, President and assis- birds. Employing former poachers as conserva- Food foraging and physical activity to prevent accuracy. Moreover, to really push the point tant professor of music education at Five Towns tionists, and providing locals with the means to Feather Destructive Behavior in companion par- of the high degree of accuracy of four decimal College in Dix Hills, New York; Joan Washington, start and maintain a trade in tourism instead of rots. places, chances are if you took the average of all Principal of PS 811 in Queens and vice-president smuggling, he’s betting that instead of buying FINCHES & CANARIES WORKSHOP the students’ π measurements, you still probably of membership, Dr. Pola Rosen, vice president of birds, their fans will pay to see them in the wild. Sponsored by the NY Companion Bird Club wouldn’t get to four-place accuracy. public relations and Dr. Stephen Levy, vice-presi- NATURE’s THE REAL MACAW offers bird Info: 212.987.8299; [email protected] You may find other such examples in Math dent of programs and retired New York City prin- lovers the rare opportunity to enjoy these beauti- Admission: Free for Members Wonders: To Inspire Teachers and Students, cipal. Dr. Levy was presented an award for many ful birds in their natural habitats rather than in pet Public: $5.00 by Alfred S. Posamentier (ASCD, 2003) see: years of service and dedication to Phi Delta Kappa, stores and cages. Please visit www.manhattanbirdclub.com for www.ascd.org. or Math Charmers: Tantalizing converting a sentimental moment into one of mer- Frank G. Robertson, Parrot Fancier events. riment by accepting in his “cafeteria voice.”#

Calendar of Events February 2006

the Lila Wallace-Reader’s Digest Award. To register for more information, call 212 864-4500 x264 join us for a fun-filled party where we’ll celebrate books Conferences Wednesday, February 22: Antonya Nelson WIM: ON THE ROAD AGAIN! and reading with story time, performances, on-going art- Programs Nelson is the author of a number of short story collections, After a successful off-site session of Words-in-Motion making workshops, and music! Be there as we unveil our National Assn. of Laboratory Schools, THE COLLEGE OF NEW ROCHELLE GRADUATE including In the Land of Men, Family Terrorists, and The we are taking the program on tour! If you are interested season-long quilting project! Featured artist TBD. March 29-31, 2006 SCHOOL Expendables, winner of the Flannery O’Connor Award in hosting Words-in-Motion at your school or community Wed. Mar 29: Breakfast with Jeffrey Sachs, general ses- Offers Three Fall Programs for Children for her collection titled Female Trouble. Nelson has been based organization, call 212 864-4500 x220. Open Houses sions, lunch, sessions continue. Registration for the fall semester is now underway at The awarded a Guggenheim fellowship, a National Endow- PROGRAMS FOR EDUCATORS Thurs. Mar 30:NYC School Visits, Sessions, Speaker THE COLLEGE OF NEW ROCHELLE College of New Rochelle’s Graduate School Education ment for the Arts grant, a Rea Award for the Short Story, The Studio Museum in Harlem acknowledges teachers as Judith Heumann. 29 Castle Place Center for the: 1) “Can Do” Program for elementary and was named by The New Yorker as one of the “twenty professionals at the center of education, whose significant Friday Mar. 31: Breakfast with Howard Gardner, Sessions New Rochelle, New York 10805 school age children; 2) After School Reading Program; young fiction writers for the new millennium.” Her latest contributions have the most profound effect on the lives morning and afternoon Join us for an open house at CNR’s Graduate School to and 3) Speech and Language Evaluation and Therapy for offering, Some Fun, is a collection of stories forthcoming and learning of students. The array of programs designed Sessions are held at Columbia University, Bank Street learn about Master’s Degrees and Certificates in: students in preschool to 8th grade. in March 2006. for educators reflects the Museum’s commitment to College or the Museum of the City of NY * Art & Communication Studies (Art Education, Art The “Can Do” Program, open to elementary school- reaching beyond the traditional classroom and museum Welcome dinners & New member breakfasts are included Therapy, Studio Art, and Communication Studies) age children, is one-on-one and is conducted by THE STUDIO MUSEUM OF HARLEM visit by responding to the increasing demand for quality For more information: [email protected] * Human Services (Career Development, Guidance graduate students in special education, guidance, 144 West 125th Street, New York, NY 10027 arts education from an interdisciplinary perspective. and Counseling, Gerontology, and Community-School or school psychology, under the supervision of the Tel: 212-864-4500, Fax: 212-864-4800 TEACHING & LEARNING WORKSHOPS FOR K-12 Entertainment Psychology) Graduate School faculty. This program includes Web: www.StudioMuseum.org EDUCATORS: SAY WHAT?: MAKING SENSE OF CON- THREE HOT SHOWS * Education (Early Childhood Education, Childhood thorough educational testing with simultaneous tutoring Upcoming public programs at The Studio Museum TEMPORARY ART PART III: PERFORMANCE ART - Tarzan Education, Gifted and Talented Education, Special in reading, math, social studies, and science. The of Harlem. For more information or to attend, please TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 - Beauty & The Beast Education, Literacy Education, Educational Leadership, emphasis is on building learning strategies. Interviews contact Savala Nolan, Public Relations Coordinator, 4:30-7:30 PM - The Lion King and Multilingual/Multicultural Education TESOL). and a final conference are conducted to discuss test at 212-864-4500 ext. 255 This is the final installment of our three-part series CALL: 212-703-1040 or 800-439-9000 findings and progress. exploring the benefits and challenges of working with DARROW SCHOOL FAX: 212-703-1085 ADULT PROGRAMS & TOURS FOR SENIORS! and exploring contemporary art. This session will trace 110 Darrow Road, New Lebanon, NY [email protected] The After School Reading Program is one-on-one and Are you an elder? Do you like meeting and having conver- the history of performance art in America, and the role Sean Fagan, Director of Admission www.disneyonbroadway.com/groups is conducted by graduate students in literacy education, sations with new people? Well… then it’s time to get out that this genre continues to play in the contemporary 518-794-6008; www.darrowschool.org under the supervision of the Graduate School faculty. and socialize! Spend a Saturday afternoon at SMH during art world. Open Houses This program offers assessment and tutoring of reading Events these exclusive tours that explore our current exhibitions. Participants will work with various artists and educators February 4 and writing problems. NEW LEADERS FOR NEW SCHOOLS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2PM to identify how performance can be used as a teaching April 29 The Speech and Language Evaluation and Therapy 30 W. 26th Street, Second Floor, New York, NY 10010 SATURDAY, MARCH 4, 2PM tool in the classroom. Teachers will partner with other Call 518-794-6006 to RSVP Program is provided by graduate students in speech and Seats are available and light refreshments will be served. attendees to create their own theme or age-based perfor- Phone: (646) 792-1066, Web: www.nlns.org EMPIRE STATE COLLEGE language pathology in a one-on-one setting, under the Programs for Seniors are FREE. Space/seating is avail- mance pieces. Select teams will be invited back to The STATE UNIVERSITY OF NY supervision of the Graduate School faculty. The focus Become an urban school principal. able on a first-come, first-served basis. Pre-registration Studio Museum to perform them during specific Family or 325 Hudson Street, 5th Floor is on vocabulary, phonics, understanding and following Join the movement to ensure that every child achieves is required. Please call 212/864-4500 x264 to reserve a Youth programs! (corner of Vandam), NY directions, comprehension of oral and written information, academic excellence and reaches their full potential. To space. All participants involved in the Museum’s programs for The Career in Teaching You’ve Always Wanted and formulating grammatically correct sentences. learn more about how you can apply to become a 2006 educators are provided with free Educator Passes, which Information Sessions: New Leader, attend one of our upcoming information ses- HOOFERS’ HOUSE enable the participants to return to the Museum to pre- Programs include interviews with parents and a final Wed. Feb. 22, 6 pm sions! You can RSVP for an information session through In honor of this important aspect of tap dancing in view exhibitions and prepare class ideas and curriculum conference to discuss test findings and progress. For more information: www.esc.edu/MATinfo or our website www.nlns.org Harlem’s history, SMH now serves as a new home free of charge. The per child fee ranges from $100-$200; financial Call 800-468-6372 Ext 2230 for hoofers. Tap dancers—elders and young people This program is FREE! Space is limited and available on aid is available. Space is limited for both programs. SARAH LAWRENCE COLLEGE alike— are invited to take the floor at these quarterly jam a first-come, first served basis. Registration is required; For further information or to register, call Marjorie LANDMARK COLLEGE Phone: (914) 395-2219 sessions, accompanied by live music! for more information call 212.864.4500 x264. Scholnick, Director of the Education Center, at (914) Putney, Vermont E-Mail: [email protected] FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 7PM FAMILY PROGRAMS 654-5333 or contact Barbra Nitzberg (914) 654-5285. Phone: (802) 387-6718 FRIDAY, MARCH 10, 7PM The Studio Museum in Harlem acknowledges the need Web: www.landmark.edu SPRING READING SERIES AT SARAH LAWRENCE COLLEGE YOUTH PROGRAMS for families to spend time together. Nurturing bonds be- Winter 2005 Open Houses Sarah Lawrence’s Spring Reading Series, running The Studio Museum in Harlem is dedicated to creat- tween parents and their children through art, the Museum Workshops Saturday, February 18th from February through April, presents several prominent ing a safe environment for youth to express themselves offers programs and activities that allow families to share 9am - 2pm authors of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Hosted by the creatively. The Museum hosts FREE programs for high in the creative process. Bring the family and explore GROUP FOR ADHD College’s Graduate Writing Program the readings, which Lenore Ruben LMSW. CHT. EMDR school students outside of the school environment. our exciting exhibition. Become an artist in a hands-on TOURO COLLEGE are free and open to the public, will be held in the Donnel- Orly Calderon, Psy D. NYS Lic. Psychologist These programs offer students the opportunity to meet workshop and create works of art with your kids! NEW YORK SCHOOL OF ley Film Theatre and Lecture Hall in the Heimbold Visual Cathy Wein, PhD, NYS, Lic. Psychologist and converse with prominent visual artists, express their Family programs are designed for families with children CAREER AND APPLIED STUDIES Arts Center and begin at 6:30 p.m. For additional informa- 250 West 57th Street #723 ideas through discussion, facilitate tours and hands-on 4-10 years old. These programs are FREE. PRE-REG- 1870-86 Stillwell Avenue tion, please call 914-395-2412. New York, NY 10107 workshops and develop important communication and ISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Call 212.864.4500 x264 to Brooklyn, NY 11223 Wednesday, February 9: Jane Kramer Phone: 212-586-2135 critical thinking skills. Pre-registration is required. Call 212 register. Phone: 718-265-6534 x1015 Kramer is the European correspondent for The New Yorker Now Forming --- call to reserve space 864-4500 x264 with questions or to register for any of the FAMILY FUN @ THE STUDIO! Fax: 718-265-0614 and writes the “Letter from Europe.” She is also the author Parents Discussion Group For parents of ADHD and/or following programs. Parents, bring the family as we explore our exciting Every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 am - 7:00 pm of nine books, including The Politics of Memory, a collec- Learning Disabled children YOUTH POETS! ARTISTS! DJS! exhibitions. Become an artist in a hands-on workshop Sundays 11:00 am - 5:00 pm. tion of her writing from Germany in the years since the Wall Topics: Myths and realities about ADHD and Learning Come out to The Studio and vibe in this special one-day and create works of art with your kids! at 27-33 West 23rd Street fell, and, most recently, Lone Patriot, published in 2002. Disabilities. Deciphering what these terms mean clinically, cipher that will surely blow your mind. Work with estab- Dress Up, Dress Down!, Saturday, February 4, 10AM- New York, NY 10010 Her books and her journalism have received awards, educationally, and legally in plain language. Methods of lished visual artists, spoken word performers, DJs and 12PM, Exploring the Frequency exhibition! 212-463-0400 ext.500 including a National Book Award, a National Magazine your peers to create a body of work that captures your Activity: Costume Making, How do you turn clothing into coping for parents, family and child. Active techniques Award, and an Emmy Award for Documentary. voices and concerns about today’s world. This incredible art? Join a tour of the Frequency exhibition and take a UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA to prevent home from becoming a battleground. How to Wednesday, February 15: C.K. Williams day will be recorded in a zine made by you and featured look at artist Nick Cave’s Soundsuits and see how it’s Pensicola, Florida advocate for your child. Exploration and sharing of strate- Williams is the author of numerous books of poetry, in- that night at the WIM Open Mic. done! Bring an old item of clothing from home to add to Phone:800-263-1074 gies that help and of pitfalls to avoid. cluding The Singing, The Vigil, A Dream of Mind, Repair, WORDS-IN-MOTION: ONE-DAY CIPHER your costume creation! Web: www.uwf.edu which won the 2000 Pulitzer Prize, and Flesh and Blood, SATURDAY, MARCH 11, 10AM – 3PM Books + Authors Kids! Open House Saturday 10 weekly sessions which won the National Book Critics Circle Award. Among WORDS-IN-MOTION: OPEN MIC Saturday, March 4, 10:00am-12:00noon February 18, 2006 $40. per person per session his many awards and honors are an American Academy SATURDAY, MARCH 11, 6:30pm Celebrate the last Family Fun program of the Winter sea- March 11, 2006 $60. per couple per session of Arts and Letters Award, a Guggenheim Fellowship, and This program is FREE and for HS Students Only! son. We know it’s cold outside, but put on your coat and April 22, 2006 There is a 10% discount for prepayment of series. FEBRUARY 2006 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ MUSIC, ART & DANCE 19

CARNEGIE HALL ANNOUNCES 2006-7 MUSICAL OFFERINGS: COLLABORATION, INNOVATION, AND ACCESS ARE THEMES

By EMILY SHERWOOD, Ph.D. to their collective vision is making the concerts be. As for podcasting, the ultimate technological Quoting former President Teddy Roosevelt, accessible to audiences who can’t afford the tool for accessibility to the masses, Mr. Gillinson Carnegie Hall’s executive and artistic direc- steep ticket prices at Carnegie Hall. Current noted that “it’s being developed….we’ve made tor Clive Gillinson announced at a standing efforts include deeply discounted subscription a commitment to it and explored ideas, but it’s a room only press conference recently that, in series for young adults in their twenties, a lim- ways away.” planning the venerable institution’s 2006-7 ited number of $10 tickets for students and In summarizing his goals for the upcoming sea- musical season, “we kept our eyes on the seniors for most performances, free tickets for son, Mr. Gillinson repeatedly stressed that he and stars and our feet on the ground.” Carnegie underserved groups, free neighborhood concerts, his management team are encouraging audiences Hall will continue to build on its longstand- and affordably priced family concerts. Student to travel from their comfort zone and take more ing commitment to “imaginative, strategic, demand alone has grown 200 percent since last risks in their musical appreciation. “Looking and rigorous” programming, but, according to year. “This is our future,” added Mr. Gillinson. ahead, we will continue to build on [our] historic Mr. Gillinson, who began his Carnegie Hall Similarly, the hall sends performing artists into strengths as we seek to develop ever more cre- directorship in July 2005 following a 35 year the city’s schools, although Mr. Gillinson admit- ative and compelling musical journeys for our career with the London Symphony Orchestra ted that the program is not as robust as it might audiences,” he concluded.# where he began as a cellist and ended as its Managing Director, “we must also play an active role in the future of music.” The diversity in Carnegie Hall’s 2006-7 programming is evident in a dazzling mix of genres, from the Vienna Philharmonic Clive Gillinson Orchestra to the Mongolian Buryat Band, from the Boston Symphony Orchestra to of Music and Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall will Ladysmith Black Mambazo. But there’ll be plenty present a month long, citywide tribute to contem- of old favorites for the traditionalists. In a series porary composer Steve Reich on the occasion of eight Perpectives concerts, the Emerson String of his 70th birthday. Titled “Steve Reich at 70”, Quartet will survey the complete Beethoven the festival will showcase the diverse musical string quartets and their central presence in the sources that inspired Reich, including African, quartet literature. Covering a span of more than electronic, medieval and Indian music, with a 200 years, the concerts will also feature works concert in Isaac Stern Auditorium to include the by Mendelssohn, Schubert, Ives, Bartok, and new Daniel Variations (a musical memorial to Shostakovich. the late Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl) “Equally important to Carnegie Hall is extend- and Different Trains (a haunting portrayal of the ing [our] tradition to the next generation, which trains that transported so many to their deaths in includes ten young composers in their 20’s and the Holocaust). 30’s, most of whom you will not yet know,” A new partnership with City Center, which will stated Mr. Gillinson. To wit, composer Osvaldo feature shared music, dance, and drama program- Golijov and soprano Dawn Upshaw will mentor ming to reap the benefits of an expanded audi- eight young composers who will write new works ence, will kick off in the 2008-9 season. for voice and chamber ensemble. The world When asked what his individual stamp on premiere concerts will take place in the Weill Carnegie Hall had been to date, Mr. Gillinson Recital Hall. modestly declined to do so, emphasizing instead In a collaboration with the Brooklyn Academy the team effort of the hall’s top managers. Key

SAM ASH MUSIC STORES A CHAIN STORE THAT HAS RETAINED Bernice, joined the team. ITS FOUNDER’S POLICIES. Sam died in 1956. Three years later, the boys Back in 1924, a young married couple decided moved the store to a larger corner store. In to open a music store. Actually, it was Rose Ash’s 1959, they opened a store on Long Island and idea. Husband Sam was a violinist and bandlead- then another. er. He also taught the violin and had learned to Fast forward to 2005. There are 45 Sam Ash repair them. His day job had been as a fabric cut- stores in 14 states, a mail order/catalog division, ter in a dress factory. Rose was a bookkeeper in a and a manufacturing company. home for the aged. She felt that running a store While Jerry, Paul and Bernice are still active, would give them more stability. Soon they found the company is mostly run by David, Richard and a young widow in their own Brownsville section Sam, the three sons of Jerry & Bernice. of Brooklyn, NY, who wanted to sell her store. The firm has been at the forefront of new prod- She would let them pay it out. For the $400 down uct development. First with synthesizers, elec- payment the couple pawned Rose’s engagement tronic pianos, disc jockey gear, packaged sound ring. Later she got it back. systems and more. They sell many thousands Sam continued to present his band at dances and of guitars, but they still offer the wind and string weddings. They lived in a small apartment behind instruments, drums, and sheet music that Sam the store and started a family. Son Jerry was born started with. And Sam’s integrity is the rock the in 1925, and Paul in 1929. The “Great Depression” company is built on. # hit in 1929, and most people and businesses went through hard times. They barely survived. Rose often remembered the day a customer came in to have his violin bow re-haired. She made him wait while Sam did the job. She took the 75¢ payment directly to the grocery store. Sam’s honesty, friendliness and hard work, built a reputation second to none. He added to the inventory and selection as he could. Things picked up a little. Daughter Marcia was born in 1935. Sam bought a car and started to deliver sheet music to piano teachers. The store’s location was difficult to reach by public transportation, and few people owned a car. They moved the store to a better location in the early 1940’s. World War II was on and Jerry was serving with the Army in Europe. Paul worked in the store after school. After the war, Jerry took an interest in the musical instruments that started to re-appear. He also cultivated school business. Soon his bride, 20

2006RAISING AWARENESS TO REDUCE BULLYING IN SUMMER CAMPS By JOEL D. HABER, Ph.D. against one another is possible. Studies in schools the bully that this behavior is unacceptable. For The Bullies Think back to your elementary/grade school reveal that approximately 11 percent of children example, bullying that begins as a physical type Today’s bullies are not necessarily the big years, and ask yourself if you can recall the top are bullied repeatedly and that 13 percent fre- can escalate in severity with more physical bully- school yard brutes who have low self-esteem three favorite memories of your childhood. They quently bully others. Repeated hurtful behavior ing or move into other forms, like exclusion and and are looking to improve their feelings of probably involve something loving, connecting, against a child can result in damage to their phys- verbal harassment. inadequacy by bullying. A camp bully may be or good to eat. Now, do the same for the least ical and emotional development. This damage is Physical popular, seek social status, be smart, well-con- favorite memories, and for many of us, there’s a not limited to the victim though: the bully as well Physical bullying is the type of bullying most nected, and even well liked. Some may look painful memory of bullying that we may recall. as the onlookers who do not intervene may also easily observed and most commonly thought like “mean girls” and some may not. They are Many of us can’t remember what we had for suffer both short and long-term consequences. of when we talk about bullying. This includes more comfortable with aggression and use this lunch last week, but can remember in exquisite Bullying 101: What Is It? punching, hitting, shoving, hair pulling, exces- to earn social rewards by making others uncom- detail the memory of a bully—and the hurt and Bullying is any intentional, hurtful act, com- sive tickling, cutting in line, rat-tailing, defacing fortable and hurting them. Usually these skills suffering we experienced. In the past, bullying mitted by one or more campers against another. personal property, or stealing one’s belongings. outweigh any empathic side. They are masters at was assumed to be a rite of passage and some- It can also be committed by counselors against It’s observed in the camp environment in many denial—and blame. The problem is that many of thing that “you just had to go through” as part of other counselors or campers. In fact it can happen forms—a child’s stuffed animal is stolen or these kids look and feel like “leaders.” Leaders growing up. Although the bullying may have hap- when anyone in power or seeking power inten- destroyed, a child is knocked down in front of may be hard to differentiate from a bully because pened on the way to and from school or during tionally hurts another person. It is not fighting others, a chair is pulled out from a child before they may have the same qualities—except they recess, no one really talked about it—let alone (between equals) or rough play. Fighting between he or she sits down, a child is physically bruised lack empathy and a willingness to look at their did anything about it. Those of us involved with equals is really an escalation of conflict. Rough over and over again. It also includes crossing own personal responsibility for their behavior. summer camp thought that camp was an escape play is normal between kids, but has a safety net over into one’s personal space when a child is One way to remember this when looking at your and refuge from the school bully. built in. If one kid says stop—it’s over. told not to. This can make a camper very uncom- campers or staff—leaders are inclusive and bul- The most important thing to realize is that the Types of Bullying Behavior Seen in Camp fortable and intimidated. lies tend to be exclusive. first step toward making your camp a bully-free Bullying behavior is divided into three types: Verbal The Victims environment is “awareness.” No more living in Physical, Relational, and Verbal. These behav- Verbal bullying involves hurtful name-calling, Victims on the other hand, are kids who are denial of the problem, but rather committed to iors are further divided into mild, moderate, and mocking, teasing, gossiping, intimidation, or “vulnerable” in some way and feel less socially keeping an open mind and a clear perspective of severe, which can help define the extent of the threatening to embarrass a child. Verbal bullying connected. A camper who is alone, less socially your environment—a comprehensive view that problem and determine if a certain type of bully- is harder to observe unless you are within earshot assertive, passive, meek, or quiet may be an easy gives you proper influence and management of ing behavior is escalating. Bullying behavior usu- of it. The hurtful unwarranted nickname, com- target. Bullies test out their power until they find what is happening in camp. ally has an escalating pattern—it generally starts ments about clothes, or being told that you are a target that won’t fight back—or won’t get Bullying Behavior out mildly to give the bullying child a chance to unpopular can all be meant to undermine a child’s the social support they need from others around Wherever children gather to study and/or play, observe a victim’s reaction. This can escalate in self-worth. Verbal bullying has to be included them. When bullies see they can brutalize some- the potential for hurtful behavior by children severity if the victim does not send a signal to as bullying behavior because of its insidious one, they seek the support of others to blame nature. How vulnerable is a child when a painful the victim for their “deserved” attack. There are comment like “nobody in this bunk likes you” is always reasons that bullies find to hurt others, expressed to an unsuspecting camper? even though no one deserves to get bullied. Types of Bullying We Don’t See The “Observers” FILL EVERY SPACE IN YOUR CAMP! There is evidence of a high prevalence of Remember the statistics cited earlier about the counselors who bully campers and/or each other. number of kids involved as bullies and victims. Maximize your revenue by A counselor who bullies is a particularly difficult In any bullying situation, there are approximately problem, because children are dependant on the 80 percent of kids or more who may observe advertising in Education Update. staff person for safety. This type of counselor bullying but may do nothing to stop it. When behavior may set a model that allows campers to victims see that observers do not step in and test out their own bullying behavior—and creates help them, or counselors do not intercede, the Parents and Teachers an escalation of bullying in their campers because victims feel worse. The observers try to justify love and read this newspaper. it is seen as an acceptable form of behavior. It is their own unhelpful behavior. They themselves also a problem if a child is dependant on his or begin to “blame” the victim for the bullying they Call 212-477-5600 Fax 212-477-5893 her counselor and feels afraid to report aggressive receive. This cycle makes the victim feel even www.EducationUpdate.com behavior to the counselor’s superior. more bullied. I have also witnessed a camper or group of Characteristics campers bully counselors. When children feel a Boys vs. Girls greater level of power over an adult, it creates Boys are generally seen as more physically a significant problem in the bunk. Staff may be strong, so we believe that boys use physical reluctant to report this for fear of their own job forms of aggression more than any other type. loss and embarrassment in front of their peers— Not so. Boys tease and use relational forms of as well as feeling a decrease in personal status aggression in summer camp more than they do among their peers. physical forms of aggression. Although “rough The Bullies and the Victims continued on page 21

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Bullying outside the classroom. Hospital Center and New York Medical College enting. For more information about the Respect continued from page 20 The camp environment is generally more and has authored numerous articles and led U program, visit www.ACAcamps.org/bullying . relaxed than a school environment. Bullying conference sessions on topics including bullying, Originally published in the 2006 January/ and tumble” play is common in boys, they have occurs during free time, in the shower when kids building resilience in children and positive par- February issue of Camping Magazine. become sophisticated in their ways to hurt verbal- are vulnerable, or at night when counselors may ly and exclude other kids. These forms of aggres- be outside the bunk. The more subtle forms of sion can leave scars for boys who emotionally do bullying, like teasing and exclusion, can happen not know how to handle these feelings. when groups of kids are away from their coun- Girls are much more comfortable with “indi- selors or have less supervision. It can also hap- INCARNATION CAMP rect” forms of communication and use verbal pen around a counselor—if that staff person sees Founded in 1886, Incarnation Camp offers both overnight and day camping to boys and girls teasing and exclusion more than double their use nothing wrong with this behavior and is complicit ages 7-15. Incarnation Camp is located in Ivoryton, Connecticut on 700 wooded acres, which sur- of physical forms of aggression. Gossiping and in it. One of the best markers for finding vulner- round a mile-long private lake. Camp alum and New York Times columnist David Brooks calls exclusion are the two most common forms of bul- able and potentially victimized children is to Incarnation “The most successful institution I’ve ever been involved with.” lying for girls—and it has almost become a “uni- watch your bunks and observe those campers In the spirit of the traditional camp experience, Incarnation Camp offers a well-rounded program versal language” for them. The problem in camps who don’t have someone to walk with, or find the including boating and swimming instruction; ropes course; archery; hiking; drama; land sports; arts occurs when counselors model this behavior, so camper who is always late to leave the bunk and and crafts; horseback riding; farm and more. Off-site camping and canoe trips are also offered dur- campers feel justified in their behavior. doesn’t feel part of the bunk community. ing the summer. Sessions for children ages 7-13 include 2, 4, 6 and 8 week options. Younger vs. Older The Key Pioneer Village offers two 4-week programs for boys and girls ages 14 and 15. Leadership Bullying generally moves from physical forms The key to all of this is that kids come to camp and personal responsibility are at the core of this program. Teens take part in Adventure Treks, to verbal and relational forms as children hit to broaden their social network, improve their which include hiking the Appalachian Trail, biking throughout New England and canoeing the Connecticut River. Campers learn to cook on open fires and work in teams as they plan and prepare teenage years. As physical forms of bullying skills, and feel good about themselves. For up to for these trips. decrease by high school, the verbal and relational two months in a summer, children need a place to Many parents claim that the strongest element of Incarnation Camp’s program is its team of forms can still maintain themselves. This is why feel safe with supervision that is willing to step in counselors and staff. Members of the staff are carefully chosen on basis of maturity, responsibility, we must work to create camp environments in and provide opportunities for them to thrive. and experience. Training is provided to further develop leadership skills, personal sensitivity and a which this behavior is not allowed. Camp has to Camp has to be a place where physical and special understanding of children’s needs. The ratio of campers to staff is less that 5 to 1. be a place that is different for children and allows emotional safety is paramount—to ensure that Parent Quotes from Summer 2005: them to thrive socially without the emotional children have the opportunities to grow. Without “This was like finding an emerald in a haystack! I am elated at his experiences.” and/or physical safety fears of bullying. this, camps do not separate themselves from other “Thank you for providing my son with such a wonderful experience. He matured, had fun, School Bullying vs. Camp Bullying institutions. You can make a difference by being gained confidence, learned new things and made new friends.” School bullying occurs in the cafeteria, at very proactive about bullying reduction and pre- “She really wants to see the rest of the world as a result of meeting all the counselors from differ- recess, in the hallway, or in bathrooms—any- vention. Begin with awareness, and you’ve taken ent places.” where that supervision is lean. Bullying in the the first step toward action.# “I love the wacky camp songs she still sings.” classroom happens less frequently because the Joel D. Haber, Ph.D., is a clinical psycholo- “My daughter loves it there, and it seems her peers and the staff do as well. There is a strong spirit of shared joy and caring that permeates Incarnation Camp…..and that is the best thing!” classroom is a structured place and the power gist and founder of the Respect U program. He ACA Accredited . Scholarships and group discounts are available. Please call Nancy Nygard (teacher) is close by. School environments gener- has held positions at University of Alabama, Pilon (Director) at 860-767-0848 to inquire. www.incarnationcenter.org ally have much less supervision for their children Birmingham Medical School, White Plains

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Marymount School 1026 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10028 Tel. 212-744-4486 Fax 212-744-0163 www.marymount.k12.ny.us [email protected] 22 BOOK REVIEWS ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FEBRUARY 2006

BOOKS, POEMS, MOVIES: BLACK HISTORY MONTH & EVERY MONTH The Passion Of My Times: AT CANAAN’S EDGE: AMERICA An Advocateʼs Fifty-Year Journey IN THE KING YEARS 1965-68 Reviewed BY MERRI ROSENBERG After the first bloody march at Selma, Dr. In The Civil Rights Movement King’s decision during the second march not Reviewed By MERRI ROSENBERG At Canaan’s Edge: America In The King Years to continue on to Montgomery—“With but an Luther King, Jr.’s speeches, or discussed the 1965-68 instant to decide whether this was a trap or a The Passion Of My Times: An Advocate’s Fifty- political efforts that helped achieve the passage by Taylor Branch miraculous parting of the Red Sea”—provided Year Journey In The Civil Rights Movement of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, becomes strikingly Simon & Schuster, New York ( 2006): 1039 pp. yet another contentious flashpoint, with some by William L. Taylor. vivid in Taylor’s narrative. movement leaders eager to maintain momentum. Published by Carroll & Graf, New York, (2004) 251 pp. Taylor’s powerful description of visiting Perhaps only a trilogy as monumental as Taylor Nor was the civil rights movement the only Natchez, Mississippi, where he and a colleague Branch’s three-volume history of America dur- issue convulsing America, as Branch points Although I was barely in elementary school from the Commission on Civil Rights were ing the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., years could out. The escalating war in Vietnam distracted during the Freedom Summer of 1964, I remember menaced by local whites, is a reminder that the do justice to that equally monumental epoch. and derailed President Johnson, and formed yet sitting in my late parents’ living room in Crown passage of the Civil Rights act was by no means Branch, the best-selling author and Pulitzer-prize another point of fissure in a country that, at times, Heights, Brooklyn, listening to several of their a certainty, and that the threats to its supporters winner who has written “Parting the Waters” and seemed to be literally coming apart at the seams. school teacher friends discuss their plans to reg- were real. He mentions one Justice department “Pillar of Fire”, which deal with King’s journey In Montgomery, Dr. King’s remarks, those that ister black voters in the South during their sum- investigator who blockaded the door to his motel from 1954 through 1965, completes his saga in hadn’t been prepared in advance, remain pow- mer vacation. I had little concept of civil rights, room when he was in Mississippi—and the har- this final volume. erful: “How long will justice be crucified and or what this effort represented–only that it was rowing experiences of local black residents, who Following Dr. King’s martyrdom and sub- truth buried? I come to say to you this afternoon, something very, very serious that had my parents shared their stories of being beaten and pistol- sequent iconic status in our culture, popular however difficult the moment, however frustrat- worried about their friends’ safety. whipped by white supremacists, for having had mythology portrayed the civil rights struggle ing the hour, it will not be long. Because truth 42 years later, those memories came flooding the courage to register other blacks to vote. It’s as an historic inevitability, with its participants crushed to earth will rise again. How long? Not back as I read William L. Taylor’s utterly compel- chilling, and sobering, and shameful. literally marching on the same page, shoulder long! Because no lie can live forever. How long? ling and engrossing memoir of his involvement as It’s not surprising that Taylor is outraged and to shoulder. Not long! Because you shall reap what you sow. a white, Jewish man from Brooklyn, as an advo- appalled by the recent election irregularities, most Yet as Branch describes in this compelling, How long?”. Thanks to Branch’s skillful descrip- cate in the civil rights movement. He takes us notably during the 2000 Presidential election in densely detailed and energetically written account tion of that scene, painted in all its immediacy from his early, heady days as part of the NAACP Florida. As Taylor writes, “Minority voters are of those watershed final years of Dr. King’s life, and rhythms, the reader feels as if he were wit- Legal Defense Fund, where Thurgood Marshall still shortchanged by inferior voting equipment the outcome was hardly pre-determined. The nessing it as an actual participant. was the chief counsel, to his appointment as gen- and ill-staffed polling places...And, of course, civil rights leader had to contend with nearly as Dr. King’s expansion of the civil rights move- eral counsel and staff director of the United States real enfranchisement for people of color will not many internal battles as with external enemies. ment to encompass poverty issues in the North, Commission on Civil Rights, to his later work be fully realized until their economic conditions There were those who considered him to be and his protests against the Vietnam War, all maintaining civil rights advances as a founder of and educational opportunities improve.” grandstanding, who resented his platform of non- contribute to the increasing demands made upon the Center for National Policy Review at Catholic A graduate of Brooklyn College and Yale Law violence, who felt unappreciated or discounted as him as a national leader, demands that physically University Law School in Washington. Some of School, Taylor believes in law as an instrument of the relentless pace of events seemed to take on a and emotionally exhausted him. his causes have included promoting affirmative justice that can redress historic wrongs and help life of its own. By the time Dr. King reaches his fateful rendez- action policies, helping black school children achieve true equality in our society. He writes, Even as some members of SNCC ( Student vous in Memphis, the reader has seen Dr. King’s during the process of desegregation in major edu- “there are many battles still to be fought, but Nonviolent Coordinating Committee) challenged despair and depression as urban riots supplant his cational systems, challenging fiscal inequity in experience suggests that they are worth fighting Dr. King’s decisions, seeing him as a “hit and run message of non-violence. His final speech to the public school funding, and now teaching, writing and that they can be won.” celebrity”, Dr. King had to deal with President Memphis sanitation workers is heartbreakingly and lecturing as an education law adjunct profes- It’s inspiring that after more than 50 years as Lyndon Johnson and J. Edgar Hoover. The march prescient: “Because I have been to the mountain- sor at Georgetown University Law School. an advocate for civil rights, Taylor still has that in Selma across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, with top... Like anybody I would like to live a long What my own children consider simply part of “fire in the belly,” and is still fighting for liberal the subsequent national horror evoked by tele- life—longevity has its place...I just want to do a history lesson in a social studies class, where causes, and social justice.# vised images of bullying state troopers wielding God’s will. And he’s allowed me to go up the they’ve dutifully read excerpts from Dr. Martin clubs, tear gas spray guns and canisters on the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I have seen marchers, was “ a turning point,” writes Branch. the promised land. And I may not get there with “The tide of confidence in equal citizenship had you, but I want you to know, tonight, that we as a swelled over decades to confront segregation as people will get to the promised land.” INSIDE THE MELTING POT well as the Nazis, and would roll forward still, but Branch’s great achievement is that King’s words By PHYLLIS C. MURRAY niently could. These “blacks” were brought from an opposing tide of resentment and disbelief rose affect the reader just as powerfully as they did his “When the nation is made ready by enlighten- the West Indies. to challenge the overall direction of American listeners, and make one mourn as though it were ment, its good fortune will make Black History The Historic Wyckoff House which is located politics, contesting the language of freedom.” April 1968 the loss of that extraordinary man.# Month an anachronism. No culture should by its in Brooklyn, NY is an example of colonial life spotlight eclipse another, and the reputation of in early NY. A recent article: “Glimpse the 17th one cannot flourish at the expense of another. We Century at Historic Wyckoff House,” describes the As late as 1820, only 55 percent of Kings Yes, Ron Issacs, “When the nation is made are a unified but not yet united civilization.” property as one that spanned 40 acres. It was also County blacks and a minuscule 18 percent in ready by enlightenment, its good fortune will —Ron Issacs viewed as a property that was a highly successful Richmond County were free. Blacks older than 45 make Black History Month an anachronism.”# In 1991, the phenomenon of unearthing 400 working farm. Wyckoff, its owner, became the years remained slaves in 1820, because masters Phyllis C. Murray is an educator, author and enslaved Africans from a 17th Century African richest man in the region. It may also be noted that: were unwilling to accept responsibility for their UFT Chapter Leader. Burial Ground in lower Manhattan, was the “Slaveholdings in New York were second only to maintenance otherwise. Slavery in the United beginning of a search by many for their African its counterpart in Charlotte, North Carolina.” States existed in the North as well as the South. ancestral past. That road of discovery has had The Native Americans and Africans helped What is unique about Scarsdale is the heroic many twists and turns. However, the records make the Dutch wealthy land barons as they effort of New York Governor Daniel Tompkins, a �� remain. The slavers and historians of that era farmed large areas, working fruit orchards and resident of Scarsdale, as he made a recommenda- �� kept copious notes. And fortunately we have attending the livestock for food. Flax was grown tion to the Legislature in 1817 to abolish Slavery had access to the incalculable research from the for linen thread and sheep provided wool for by 1827. We can also witness the courage of the �� African Burial Ground Project OPEI Update clothing. A visit to Philipsburg Manor Upper Quakers who manumitted their enslaved Africans founded in 1991 and directed for over a decade Mills today in North Tarrytown will provide by 1782 and even required themselves to train �� by Dr. Sherrill Wilson. additional insight into the lifestyle of the Dutch their former slaves to earn a living and to find a If we take another look at life in colonial gentry of this period. This site was manned by place to live. And we can witness the beneficence �� New York and search beyond the Dutch West enslaved Africans as the Philipses reaped the of Quakers who were active in the Underground �� India Company’s enticement of free land and reward from this free African labor. Railroad hiding slaves in barns and secret cup- �� free trade, we will see that the DWI company Bland Taylor writes: “in 1698, 15 percent of boards on Mamaroneck Road. �� provided another enticement to white settlers: Kings County population were slaves. Kings Racism today is merely a remnant of Slavery’s enslaved Africans to labor without compensation. County by the 18th Century became the heavi- past revisited in the present. Today, we have two �� In the East India Company’s charter of Privilege est slave holding county in New York State. separate chronicles of history: one white and one and Exemption for the patrons the following Although 1/5 of New York State black population black. Yet, the two belong together. �� is noted: “in that document for the purpose of were free by the end of the 18th Century only 3 Understanding our true past will enable one to �� encouraging agriculture, the company agreed to percent (46) free blacks resided in Kings County, understand the present. However, the care of the �� furnish colonists as many blacks as they conve- the smallest number in the state. future is in our hands. FEBRUARY 2006 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ BOOK REVIEWS 23

BOOKS, POEMS, MOVIES: REFLECT, LOVE, CRY, REMEMBER FOREVER Harper Lee, Gregarious for a Day REVISITING THE DEEP SOUTH IN By GINIA BELLAFANTE Kill a Mockingbird,’’ announcing that her name Of all the functions at the president’s man- was Harper. ‘‘Well, that’s my name, too,’’ Ms. O ILL OCKINGBIRD sion of the University of Alabama here, none Lee said. The girl’s mother, LaDonnah Roberts, “T K A M ” has acquired the mystique surrounding a modest said she had decided to make her daughter Ms. By MERRI ROSENBERG behavior of the “white trash” elements, whose annual luncheon attended by high school students Lee’s namesake after her mother-in-law gave her From our vantage point in 2006, it’s some- precarious superiority to the blacks among whom from around the state. a copy of the book during her pregnancy. Another times easy to forget exactly how pervasive and they live and work depends on the persistence of They come with cameras dangling on their girl, Catherine Briscoe, 15, one of the essay con- pernicious racism was at earlier, more shameful institutional and cultural racism. wrists and dressed, respectfully, as if they were test winners, had read the novel six times. She moments in our history. Played out against the tragedy of Tom about to issue an insurance policy or anchor the trembled and held her hand to her heart as she The 1962 movie, “To Kill a Mockingbird”– Robinson’s fate is the story of Atticus’s two news. An awards ceremony for an essay contest spoke of its author: ‘‘It was breathtaking to meet based on Harper Lee’s novel, set in a small motherless children, Jem and Scout ( “Jean on the subject of ‘‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’’ the the most important person in my life.’’ Alabama town in the 1930s– hauntingly evokes Louise”), who, in their innocence, don’t under- occasion attracts no actor, politician or music Sometimes Ms. Lee will encounter someone that time and place, indelibly capturing in stand the injustices they witness and whose figure. Instead, it draws someone to whom who will claim to know exactly where Boo nuanced images and restrained dialogue the cruel questioning of their elders’ assumptions throws in Alabamians collectively attach far more obses- Radley lived. ‘‘I had a girl come up to me here,’’ banalities of racism . sharp relief many of the degradations of the Jim sion: the author of the book itself, Harper Lee, Ms. Lee recalled, referring to an awards ceremo- As Atticus Finch, a decent and honorable white Crow system. In one harrowing scene, Atticus who lives in the small town of Monroeville, Ala., ny a few years ago, ‘‘and she said, ‘Boo Radley Southerner who undertakes the doomed responsi- has gone to the local jail to protect Robinson from one of the most reclusive writers in the history of lives across the street from my grandparents.’ ‘‘ bility of defending an equally decent and honor- a mob bent on administering their own brutal American letters. ‘‘Well, I didn’t know what to say to that,’’ she able black farmer, Tom Robinson, who is falsely justice. Watching the scene unfold as Atticus, With more than 10,000,000 copies sold since it said, laughing. accused of raping a white woman, Gregory Peck glasses perched atop his nose, calmly continues first appeared in 1960, ‘‘To Kill a Mockingbird’’ Ms. Lee lives with her 94-year-old sister, Alice, offers a heart-breaking performance of someone to read even as a restless crowd gathers, with the exists as one of the best-selling novels of all a lawyer who still practices, and keeps an apart- who will do the right thing no matter what the arrival of his children whose conversations with time. For decades, Ms. Lee has remained fiercely ment in New York. She is not a judge in the essay personal cost to himself and his family. some of their neighbors ultimately disperses the mindful of her privacy, politely but resolutely contest, nor does she make any formal statement Never mind that there is no evidence, no real mob, is almost unbearably dramatic. refusing to talk to the press and making only at the ceremony. Her one stipulation for the con- case against Robinson. All that matters, in the This is one of those classic movies that fully rare public appearances, in which she always test was that children who were home-schooled community and in the court room, is that an deserves the accolades, attention and awards it declines to speak. She has maintained her resolve be eligible to compete. impenetrable barrier between the races allegedly has received through the years. Its very specific- despite renewed attention in the wake of the film The story of Ms. Lee’s involvement with the has been breached. ity, rooted in the time and mores of the 1930s ‘‘Capote,’’ in which Ms. Lee is portrayed as the contest begins five years ago with her induction The film contrasts the dignity of many of the Deep South, is exactly what makes its message moral conscience of her childhood friend Truman to the Alabama Academy of Honor, a society that town’s black residents, whether they are minis- so universal.# Capote; the coming ‘‘Infamous,’’ another Capote pays homage to influential people born or living ters, domestics or laborers, with the distasteful movie in which Sandra Bullock plays Ms. Lee; in the state. In 2001, as the academy was casting and a biography of Ms. Lee scheduled for May. about to include more women, Mr. Carruthers, But since the essay contest, sponsored by the chairman of the academy, called Ms. Randall to Honors College at the University of Alabama, see whom the group might have overlooked, he got going five years ago, Ms. Lee, who is 79, said. When Mr. Carruthers went back to the com- From The Souls of Black Folk, has attended the ceremony faithfully, meeting mittee and recommended that they approach Ms. with the 50 or so winners from most of the Lee, the other members decreed that he could try 1903, W.E.B. DuBois state’s school districts and graciously posing but that surely, because of her outsized reputa- Strange to relate! For this is certain, no secure ought not to forget that despite the pressure of for pictures with the parents and teachers who tion for shyness, she would have no part of such civilization can be built in the South with the poverty, and despite the active discouragement accompany them. a group. Negro as an ignorant, turbulent proletariat. and even ridicule of friends, the demand for ‘‘What these people have done for me is Mr. Carruthers was not deterred. ‘‘I had a Suppose we seek to remedy this by making them higher training steadily increases among Negro wonderful,’’ Ms. Lee, who agreed to speak to a vested interest in this whole thing,’’ he joked, laborers and nothing more: they are not fools, youth: there were, in the years from 1895-1900, reporter about the event, said during the luncheon ‘‘because I wanted to prove them all wrong.’’ they have tasted of the Tree of Life, and they will nearly 100 graduates. From Southern Negro col- on Friday. She was referring specifically to the He approached Ms. Lee about the possibility not cease to think, will not cease attempting to leges there were, in the same three periods, 143, two people who had conceived the contest in of a nomination. ‘‘I couldn’t promise that she read the riddle of the world. By taking away their 413, and over 500 graduates. Here, then, is the her honor, Thomas N. Carruthers, a prominent would win,’’ he said. To everyone’s surprise, Ms. best equipped teachers and leaders, by slamming plain thirst for training; by refusing to give this Birmingham lawyer, and Cathy Randall, a former Lee accepted the nomination. She was elected to the door of opportunity in the faces of their bolder Talented Tenth the key to knowledge, can any administrator at the university. the academy in 2001, one year after Rosa Parks and brighter minds, will you make them satisfied sane man imagine that they will lightly lay aside Ms. Lee said she was struck by the perspec- and one year before Condoleezza Rice. Fearing with their lot? Or will you not rather transfer their yearning and contentedly become hewers of tive young people bring to the book. ‘‘They that too much pomp and fuss might scare her their leading from the hands of men taught to wood and drawers of water? always see new things in it,’’ she added. ‘‘And off, Mr. Carruthers asked academy members not think to the hands of untrained demagogues? We the way they relate it to their lives now is really to bring fawning grandchildren to the induction quite incredible.’’ ceremony. Many brought them anyway, with The students write with longing for the kind of books to sign, all of which Ms. Lee cheerfully HARRIET BEECHER STOWE: unmanaged childhood experienced by Jem and autographed. Mr. Carruthers and Ms. Randall Scout Finch in the rural 1930’s Alabama of Ms. devised the essay contest to commemorate her Lee’s rendering. Some tell of the racial tensions entry into the academy. UNCLE TOM’S CABIN, 1852 they witness in their school cafeterias, others of Ms. Lee is quick-witted and gregarious. At the Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) is best homemaking and the raising of children, and the regional prejudices they experience at the ceremony she greeted a server at the mansion known today as the author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, religion. hands of Northern peers who assume anyone whom she remembered from luncheons past. ‘‘I which helped galvanize the abolitionist cause Cincinnati was just across the river from from Alabama must drive a pickup truck or live went back to my friends and I told everyone that and contributed to the outbreak of the Civil War. Kentucky, a slave state. It was in Cincinnati in a mobile home. In an essay a few years ago one I’d met you,’’ the young woman said. ‘‘Nobody Uncle Tom’s Cabin sold over 10,000 copies in the that Harriet first became aware of the horrors of girl likened the trial of the book’s Tom Robinson, believed me. I said, ‘Oh, yeah, I did, and she is first week and was a best seller of its day. After slavery. Cincinnati was one of the largest cities a black man unjustly accused of raping a white the nicest, sweetest lady.’’ Ms. Lee looked at her the publication of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Stowe in the country, twice the size of Hartford at that girl, to the 1999 murder of Billy Jack Gaither, a with amused suspicion and started to laugh. became an internationally acclaimed celebrity time. When Harriet and Calvin learned that their young man living in Sylacauga, killed because During lunch she reminisced about her old and an extremely popular author. In addition to servant, Zillah, was actually a runaway slave, he was gay. friend Horton Foote, who wrote the screen- novels, poetry and essays, she wrote non-fic- Calvin and Henry Ward drove her to the next The recipient of the Pulitzer Prize in 1961, ‘‘To play for the acclaimed 1962 film of ‘‘To Kill a tion books on a wide range of subjects including station on the Underground Railroad. One night, Kill a Mockingbird’’ remains the only book Ms. Mockingbird,’’ starring Gregory Peck. Ms. Lee Harriet’s friend, Mr. Rankin, saw a young woman Lee has written. It is difficult to overestimate spent three weeks on the set, she said, and took long—the two have become good friends—she run across the river over the ice with a baby in her the sustained power of the novel or the rever- off when she realized everything would be fine answered that she would get to him ‘‘once I fin- arms. This story moved Harriet deeply and would ence with which Ms. Lee is treated here: it is not without her. ish off all the letters I have to write.’’ Since the later become one of the most famous scenes in uncommon to find live staged versions of the ‘‘I think it is one of the best translations of release of ‘‘Capote,’’ much of her time has been Uncle Tom’s Cabin.# story, hear of someone who has devoted his life a book to film ever made,’’ she said. Ms. Lee spent writing demurrals to reporters seeking to playing Atticus Finch in road shows, or meet attended Peck’s memorial service in California interviews about her life. Someone suggested children named Scout or ones named after the three years ago. About her friend Mr. Foote, who she come up with a form-letter response to Send in your suggestions for readings for author herself. is 89, she said, ‘‘He’s become quite amazing such requests. children, teens, college sudents, adults. At a book signing after the ceremony on looking in old age, like God, but clean-shaven.’’ What it would say, she joked, ‘‘is hell, no.’’# Fax: 212-477-5893 Friday afternoon, a little girl in a velvet dress When Mr. Carruthers approached and asked Copyright © 2006 by The New York Times Co. Reprinted email: [email protected] approached Ms. Lee with a hardback copy of ‘‘To why he hadn’t received a letter from her in so with permission. 24 CHILDREN’S CORNER ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FEBRUARY 2006

FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT’S SEAT WILL THE REAL BIG BIRD Getting Along & OSCAR STAND UP? By DR. CAROLE G. In our Peer Educators program we train high Sesame Streetʼs Caroll Spinney, Alter Ego Of Big Bird And Oscar, To HANKIN WITH school students to meet with third grade classes RANDI T. SACHS and discuss conflicts that can arise between stu- Receive National Television Academyʼs Lifetime Achievement Award If your children are doing dents and how they should best be handled. They The National Academy of Television Arts & “Caroll Spinney has distinguished himself in well academically in school, use role playing and games to get the message Sciences recently announced that Caroll Spinney, entertaining and inspiring generations of children it’s great. across to the younger children. A program that the puppeteer who plays the roles of Big Bird worldwide in his dual roles as the sweet and com- Another part of school is the social compo- began in the high school and has been adapted and Oscar the Grouch on Sesame Street, will be passionate Big Bird and the distinctively different nent. If your child has a conflict with his or her by the elementary and middle schools is Syosset the recipient of this year’s Lifetime Achievement Oscar the Grouch,” said Peter Price, President, classmates, it may be necessary for you to inter- PRIDE. It stands for Patience, Respect, Integrity, Award at the 33rd Annual Daytime Emmy® National Television Academy. “The Academy vene. Once you have a clear picture of what is Dignity, and Empathy, and serves as a guide for Awards. Spinney was chosen for his work enter- is proud to honor the man who has dedicated his happening, call the teacher and ask if he or she students to model their own behavior. taining and educating children for nearly four career to creating and sustaining for four decades has observed the situation you are concerned We also have a Peer Mediation program in our decades, since the series debut in 1969. two of the most-loved and respected children’s about. Don’t wait too long to see if the situation schools, in which children are trained to medi- Spinney, a puppeteer since the age of eight, television characters.” resolves itself on its own, particularly if you ate disputes between classmates and help them turned an eight-foot, two-inch tall bird and a crab- “I am elated and amazed to receive this honor feel your child is being mistreated or picked on come to a peaceful solution. Our Peer Mediators by trash can dwelling grouch into world-renowned from those who are committed to the best of what by another child or group of children. If your learn how to listen to both sides of a disagree- cultural icons. His characters have been seen television and media have to offer, for doing what child’s teacher is unable to turn things around, ment and validate the feelings of each individual. on more than 4,000 episodes, as well as Sesame I’ve always wanted to do,” said Spinney. it may be necessary to take your concerns to By empowering our students in this way we are Street television specials that have taken Spinney Spinney will accept the award during the another professional. giving them the tools they need to resolve con- to China, Japan, Australia, France, Germany, 33rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards ceremony There is a universal need for character educa- flicts, and helping them understand that peaceful, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Spinney starred on Friday, April 28, (8:00-11:00 PM, ET) tion in our schools. We need to teach our children thoughtful solutions to problems are beneficial in the feature film Follow That Bird and has per- broadcast live on ABC from the Kodak Theatre that they must treat one another with respect and to everyone. formed on a number of other shows, including The in Los Angeles. This will mark the first time dignity and show no tolerance for behavior that As parents, we need to listen carefully to what West Wing and Hollywood Squares. His work has the Daytime Emmy Awards will be broadcast threatens or harms others. Your school should our children say. garnered him four Emmy Awards. Spinney’s book, from Hollywood in the 33-year history of the have a proactive campaign to teach and model Assure your children that they will have your The Wisdom of Big Bird chronicles his experiences Awards ceremonies.# appropriate behavior for all students. help. When parents and administrators stand firm portraying the famous characters. In Syosset, we have a strong character educa- and give clear instructions on acceptable conduct, tion program in all of our schools, from elemen- we can help our children to get along at school tary through the high school. We talk with our and in the world.# students about how their behavior affects others. THE STUDIO MUSEUM OF HARLEM by Sandra Jackson-Dumont The early 1990s witnessed the release of the classic hip-hop record aptly entitled Edutainment, by KRS-One and Boogie Down Productions (BDP). Arguably the last great album by one of hip hop’s FEB. EVENTS AT CHILDREN’S earliest socially conscious rappers, Edutainment was nothing short of what the title inferred— education and entertainment combined as a strategy to meet the public where they were intellectually, politically and socially. To some, I might be dating myself by referencing the term edutainment. To others, it may MUSEUM: ANDY WARHOL sound like another sorry effort to coin a word. But to those of us in the field of education, museums and/or community organizing, this reference resonates because it has been the source of much dialogue On February 20, 2006 artist James Warhola, to his work. Other current books Warhola has at museum and education conferences around the world. Over the last decade, many museums have nephew of the great 20th century painter Andy illustrated include: If Dogs Were Dinosaurs, The taken steps to become increasingly more audience-centered spaces, giving rise to interactive public programs ranging from attention-grabbing family activities like Family Fun @ the Studio, complete with Warhol, will be conducting a special reading Wheels on the Racecar, and Bubba the Cowboy appearances by familiar cartoon characters, to social parties like SMH’s own Uptown Fridays! Music, from his childhood memoir, Uncle Andy’s at Prince, all published by Scholastic. cocktails, culture, which was designed as a point of entry for young professionals and new museum goers. the Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM). February recess is almost here and the Children’s Seminars, including contemporary Issues in Context, at The Studio Museum often meld popular culture Uncle Andy’s, a book inspired by childhood Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) is open every day and traditional art history in an effort to contemporize subjects while simultaneously nurturing a new cultural consumer. When comparing the complexion of today’s museum with the role historically carved memories of a particular visit to see his uncle in from February 20 - 26! From international dance out for this kind of institution, some questions beg for answers. Have museums been reduced to pro- 1962, is a Winner of the International Reading performances such as Ballet Fiesta Mexicana grammatic entertainment? What would museums look like in the absence of “edutainment”? While the Association’s Best Children’s Non-Fiction Book Ybarra and The Seventh Principle to story tell- fields of community and k-12 education seem to have embraced this approach to learning, museums that of 2004 award. Readings will be held at 3 pm ing, pop art and triptych painting, CMOM offers experiment with new ways to make content relevant and meaningful have often been heavily criticized and even accused of dumbing down. And as a result, the state of museums in the 21st century is wrought and 4 pm in the Creativity Lab and will be a a variety of interactive programs and perfor- with contradiction. The territorialized exclusionary practices on which museums have traditionally been great opportunity for both parents and children mances for everyone, along with its current inter- built is in direct conflict with modern technology and, in most cases, the contemporary patron. Slowly to hear a unique perspective on Andy Warhol. active exhibitions: Dora the Explorer, Alice’s and progressively, this sturdy historic framework is withering in the glare of a flourishing model that is This special reading and other Warhol activities Wonderland: A Most Curious Adventure, and The at once unexpectedly interesting and surprisingly relevant. Many museums are embracing a new model are aligned with The Art of Andy Warhol, a new Art of Andy Warhol. CMOM is open extended that focuses on redefining the museum as a hybrid space where history and the contemporary can set up camp alongside theory and practice. By functioning as a “site for the dynamic exchange of ideas,”1 exhibition featuring the iconic work of this world hours for mid-winter recess to keep every child’s various constituencies are able to intersect with and within the museum to make the space more than a renowned artist, sponsored at CMOM through brain humming during vacation. Open Monday, holding facility for objects. All things considered, if “edutainment” translates into an engaging, vital and May 28, 2006 by Fuji Photo Film, U.S.A., Inc. February 20 – Friday, February 24 from 10:00am exciting environment, then employing this pedagogy is well worth the criticism!# Author Series: James Warhola Reading – 5:00pm and Saturday, February 25 and Sunday, Sandra Jackson-Dumont is the Director of Education & Public Programs, The Studio Museum in Harlem. Monday, February 20 3 and 4pm February 26 from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Ages 5 and older in the Creativity Lab Programming throughout the month of February James Warhola, Andy Warhol’s nephew and includes: author and illustrator of Uncle Andy’s will read DISNEY GIVES SCHOOLS FIRST-CLASS TREATMENT from his reminiscent book about his childhood Heroes Among Us visits to see his famous uncle, Andy Warhol. This Saturday & Sunday, February 4 & 5 at When you let your students discover the wonder and joy of Disney on Broadway, we’ll make the is a remarkable opportunity for both parents and 11am, 12, 2, 3 & 4pm experience unforgettable! This school year give your students a day to remember by taking advan- children to hear a unique perspective on Andy Learn about Jacob Lawrence, an artist who tage of Disney’s educational program, which provides schools with special rates for groups of 15 or more for Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, and Tarzan. Warhol, one of the most important major 20th grew up in Harlem, through the stories his paint- In addition, because we know you want to provide the necessary adult supervision, Disney gives century American artists. ings tell. Paint your own triptych (three paneled educators one free ticket for every 15 purchased at both shows. Flexible policies allow teachers to “It was an important year for my uncle as an painting) based on the heroes in your own life. pay in full 2–3 months before the performance. Disney invites schools to dedicate an entire day to artist,” Warhola has said of the inspiration for Performance: El Louie Show the theater and to enhance the group’s experience by taking a historical tour of the New Amsterdam Uncle Andy. “Our surprise visit created a quirky Saturday, February 4 1:30 & 3pm Theater the morning prior to the performance. Built in 1903, the New Amsterdam has long been the situation with many great visual memories.” Like Join musician and music educator, Louie, for crown jewel of Broadway’s theaters. After a two-year restoration process that led to the theater’s his uncle, James Warhola attended Carnegie- an interactive, bilingual family concert. re-opening in 1997, the theater now hosts Disney’s Tony Award winning musical, The Lion King. The Mellon University, receiving a BFA in Design in The Key to Me: A “Curious” Book of New Amsterdam Theater is the perfect venue for events ranging from 15 to 1,800 people. The theater 1977. Upon graduation, he moved to New York Wonder and its two historic rooms, the Ziegfeld Room and the New Amsterdam Room, can accommodate City to begin work as a graphic designer, but soon Saturday, February 11 11am, 12, 2, 3 & everything from a full production to an intimate candlelight dinner. For more information please call changed his focus to book illustration, studying at 4pm Amy Andrews at 212-282-2907. the prestigious Art Student’s League. Alice in Wonderland was forever asking, “Who We will help teachers arrive to the theater prepared. For every show, Disney has developed study guides that help teachers develop projects, discussions and activities. And, for those students who In 1980 James began to work as a paperback am I?” Create a storybook with facts and pictures always have a question after most Wednesday matinees, members of the cast, orchestra or crew are cover artist, and over the next 15 years, he all about you. Bind your book with a colorful rib- available to appear for special Q & A sessions with students. attained a highly respected reputation in the bon and a one-of–a kind key. Students can also enjoy discounts on Disney on Broadway souvenir merchandise, as each member field, creating over 300 covers for the science “Curious” Valentine of your group will receive a merchandise coupon for great savings at the theater. Teachers can also fiction and fantasy genre. His work has been Sunday, February 12 11am, 12, 2, 3 & 4pm arrange special lunch savings at McDonald’s Times Square location, which, seating over 2,000, spe- shown extensively at The Museum of American Make a curious valentine that, like Alice in cializes in school groups customized for any budget. Finally, groups save on Gray Line New York bus Illustration, as well as several other museums Wonderland, shrinks and grows. Decorate it with charters, as special Disney promotional rates are available.# throughout the country. He has also held the sparkles and surprises for the one you love! For more info or to book call 212-703-1040 or 1-800-439-9000, fax 212-703-1085 or email odd distinction of contributing regularly to MAD Limited space/seating; first come, first [email protected]. Or visit www.disneyonbroadway.com. Magazine, adding a unique and humorous edge served). www.cmom.org or call 212.721.1223. # FEBRUARY 2006 ■ EDUCATION UPDATE ■ RESOURCE & REFERENCE GUIDE 25 *RESOURCEANDREFERENCEGUIDE*

BOOKS COLLEGES DANCE PROGRAMS SCHOOL RECRUITMENT

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TUTOR IN.indd 1 1/11/06 3:22:17 PM FEBRUARY 2006 MetroBEAT EDUCATIONcontinued on page UPDATE 29 • 26 The Flavor of the Month Mayor Bloomberg Gives By CSA PRESIDENT find out Joel Klein’s views about union contracts JILL LEVY and “entrepreneurialism”. (This column is excerpted Joel Klein said: “In a system that is produc- Blueprint For NYC Stability from Jill Levy’s speech to ing results that we as a nation find somewhere the union membership at the between awful and deplorable, we need to think CSA Conference at the New seriously about an environment that’s going to & Growth York Hilton. The complete speech can be read at foster entrepreneurialism so that we have innova- “We stand at a special moment for our city. Brooklyn and Melrose in the Bronx. www.csa-nyc.org.) tion in the system.” How dare he say that? Yes, Over the past four years, we’ve overcome some “Education is another important element in Each year, you attend this Conference to dem- we have issues. Yes, we need to do better in some monumental challenges—and we only did so by our blueprint: This year we will create more onstrate your genuine and unswerving loyalty cases, but, deplorable? coming together. Now, we can push New York on new schools and programs that give high school to the education of children – a dedication that Joel Klein’s embrace of an entrepreneurial sys- to even greater heights, if we stay united. And students additional routes to graduation, employ- transcends politics, reorganizations, budget cri- tem would have us working in a school system recently, in my State of the City address, I laid ment, and post-secondary education. We will ses, and the latest sexy “flavor of the month” in that bends to the whims of private funders and out a blueprint for how we can do it. work to lift the State cap on charter schools. This education reform. their ideas about what education is. Tweed and “To create the jobs our city needs, we’re going September, we also will open Brooklyn Latin, the This month’s flavor is Charter Schools and its cadre of young MBAs creates new, untest- to continue investing in a diversity of indus- first of seven new academically selective schools. it is no mere whim that Joel Klein and Mayor ed policies and reorganizations and calls them tries—including tourism, film and TV produc- And at the same time, we will partner with NYU Bloomberg strongly support charter schools and “reforms.” This house of cards, funded by outside tion, and bioscience. This year, work will start and CUNY to launch an ambitious new training want to control them. Mr. Klein has repeatedly interests, will come tumbling down when, guess on an extraordinary range of projects in all five curriculum for aspiring teachers. said privately to me, and publicly that he believes what, all these private philanthropists move on to boroughs—from the Atlantic Yards to the Javits “To strengthen our government’s integrity, I that charter schools are “the answer.” The answer the next flavor of the month for them. Convention Center—creating jobs, revitalizing have proposed a ban on all gifts from lobbyists. to what? And who gets left to pick up the pieces? our waterfront, and invigorating our communi- We’ll also seek to end the practice of ‘pay-to- Are charter schools the answer to responding to We do! When this new experiment fails, ties. We’ll also push Silverstein Properties and play’ that corrupts the legislative process. And parents, being collaborative, bringing the “pub- who will be blamed? We will, the school the Port Authority to renegotiate their lease so we we’ll strengthen our government’s long-term lic” back into public education? administrators and supervisors—the first to can accelerate construction at the World Trade fiscal health by working with City labor and Or are they simply the precursors to vouchers? get blamed when things go wrong and the last Center site and build the retail stores that the legislative leaders to achieve innovative pension Are they the precursors to privatization? (By the to get a contract. area needs. That’s crucial to Lower Manhattan’s modifications and health care savings. way, the new buzz word for privatizing education Well, Mr. Klein may still think that the reor- rebirth as the world’s financial capital and as a “But the foundation of our blueprint for the is “entrepreneurialism.” So, if you’re not entre- ganization is “a work in progress” or that you’re thriving residential community. future is improving public safety. Over the com- preneurial, you can’t be a good leader. Well forget “on the right track”, or “moving in the right direc- “Our blueprint for the future also includes ing year, we will make the nation’s safest big city it. We know where that’s going.) tion,” but he needs to know that you, every one bold initiatives in housing, health, and fighting even safer by expanding the use of DNA to solve Here’s another question: Is this quest for char- of you, supervisors, administrators, teachers, par- poverty. We’ll move forward on our $7.5 bil- crimes and mounting a bold campaign against ter schools a way to get rid of professional ents, paraprofessionals, school aides, all of you, lion plan to build or preserve 165,000 units of our most urgent threat: illegal guns. Our strategy unions—the unions that they don’t want to deal you are the people who struggle to keep ahead of affordable housing, much of it for middle-class includes launching lawsuits against irresponsible with; the unions that they do not respect; the that train that’s on the “right track” and its ever- families. We’ll launch an effort to ensure every gun dealers and urging the State Legislature both unions that, in fact, speak for their members? changing rules and mandates. You are the people school student has health insurance, and bolster to stiffen penalties for gun criminals and create Their fondest desire is to do with you what they that Joel Klein should be applauding today.# our campaigns against two of the city’s big- a database to track these offenders once they’re will – move you, fire you, intimidate you, harass Jill Levy is the President of the Council of gest killers—diabetes and HIV/AIDS. And, Time released from prison. you. Read the November 30 Education Week to School Supervisors and Administrators. Warner CEO Dick Parsons and Geoffrey Canada, “No doubt, these all represent tough challeng- President and CEO of The Harlem Children’s es, but if we continue forward in a non-partisan Zone, will lead a public-private taskforce to way—putting our common interests first—there attack chronic poverty and unemployment, start- is no limit to how much we can achieve.# Cityʼs Schools Cut ing in Bushwick and Bedford-Stuyvesant in

Achievement Gap? Not Yet have a proven record showing that there are graduating a mere third of its students, has been By LIZ KRUEGER, Regents diploma. As a point of comparison, a different ways to succeed in school and career transformed into six successful small schools. Of NYS SENATOR Regents diploma is granted to more than one in opportunities. Consortium schools, which utilize the students in JREC’s four high schools, more While reading the news- three white and Asian students. So, as much as performance-based assessments, boast a drop-out than 90 percent graduate and the vast majority of paper last month, a headline I would like to take comfort in knowing that in rate that is half of New York City public schools. them go to college. caught my eye: “City’s Schools Cut Racial Gap in some grades, racial discrepancies in test scores With 71 percent of the students being of color I know that closing the achievement gap will Test Scores.” I was pleased to learn that accord- are becoming less apparent, in the end, our school and 61 percent qualifying for free lunch, their require substantial investment of dollars and ing to a new national study, the achievement system has not only failed, but it has managed students are graduating and moving on to college ideas. While progress is being made in the lower gap between African American and Hispanic to create a serious predicament for civil rights at rates higher than the City as a whole. grades, graduation rates are an urgent problem students and their white peers is narrowing in as a whole. More than half a century after the Small high schools have also demonstrated which requires that we also pay extra special New York City schools more so than in any of Brown v. Board of Education decision, our city’s success in graduating more students. The Julia attention to our high schools. Through deliberate the other 10 urban school districts represented in schools are not upholding the right of every child Richmond Education Complex (JREC) on East work, we can correct this crisis so that you and I the analysis. to obtain an equal education. 67th Street in my district is one example of a might one day read the headline, “City’s Schools The study showed that the difference between We must support all students, especially those school that, once a large, failing high school Cut Racial Gap”—and believe it.# the average scores of New York’s African who are struggling, by affording them greater American and white students decreased by 10 flexibility with their education. Giving students points, while among white and Hispanic students, who already feel disenfranchised by the school Space Foundation Now Accepting the gap reduced by 7 points. Moreover, New system a battery of tests for which they are not York was the leading district in reading scores adequately prepared is futile and sets them up for fourth and eighth grade students who are for failure. We need to give them something new, Applications for Teacher Liaison Program eligible for the free and reduced lunch program, we owe them something better! To this end, I Applications are due to the Space Foundation classes. a gauge of socioeconomic disadvantage. Good suggest that the City and State work together to by Feb. 24, 2006. Space Foundation Teacher Teacher Liaisons are recognized during the news, right? Well, before you or I let these statis- develop additional alternative methods for assist- Liaisons serve as an active link between the 22nd National Space Symposium, and receive tics convince us that adequate progress is being ing students and measuring success. Consortium, Space Foundation, NASA, and their school and free registration to the symposium, held April 3- made towards closing the achievement gap, let’s performance based schools, co-op/vocational school district. 6, 2006, at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. review the facts about the actual NYC graduation programs and specialized high schools have all All kindergarten through 12th grade educators, They also gain free admission to the Lockheed rates of African American and Hispanic students shown promise. We must also focus our efforts on or other professionals or informal educators who Martin Exhibit Center, showcasing the latest versus their white counterparts. new initiatives and programs for the 10th grade, have a desire to integrate space education into in space technology and applications, at the Just two days before I read the above article the “problem age,” when too many students their classrooms are eligible to apply. National Space Symposium. lauding the New York City school system for especially in schools with large African American Teacher Liaisons receive specialized training Applications are available to download online its progress towards eliminating racial dispari- and Hispanic populations—seem to give up and and instruction at Space Foundation and NASA at www.SpaceFoundation.org/education or by ties, the following headline appeared in the drop out. workshops with optional graduate-level credit; contacting Jonathan Ogg, Director of Education, same newspaper, “Few Minorities Get Best High As our school system has followed the trend exclusive science, technology, engineering, and at (719) 576-8000. Selected teachers will be noti- School Diplomas.” of emphasizing high-stakes testing rather than math (STEM) professional development experi- fied in March.# The article grimly reminded us that after 4 preparation for college and/or employment, those ences with optional continuing education credit; For more info, visit www.SpaceFoundation. years of high school, only one out of ten African who do not test well are left outside of this “one- and attend special space-oriented student pro- org. American and Hispanic students will receive a size-fits-all” model. Quality vocational programs grams created just for Teacher Liaisons and their New York City • FEBRUARY 2006 FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS • 27 ADVICE FOR CHILDREN FROM Eighty Percent Of Country Earned BOSTON CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL Since we’re in the midst of flu and cold season, http://www.childrenshospital.org/mychildhas. I wanted to alert you to a helpful resource on the Additional resources are available on Children’s Mediocre Or Near-Failing Grades recently re-launched Children’s Hospital Boston Hospital Boston’s Web site at http://www.chil- Web site—the “My Child Has” search feature, drenshospital.org. One of the more popular fea- In First-Ever ʻReport Cardʼ On which offers an encyclopedic database of infor- tures is “Arthur’s Guide to Children’s Hospital mation on childhood illnesses and conditions, Boston,” available in both Spanish and English. tips on preventive care, as well as explanations of This guide was created to answer questions State Of Emergency Medicine treatments, procedures, and diagnostic tests, with children may have about going to the hospital The state of emergency care in America ranked state in each category. links from each entry to the appropriate clinical and to help prepare the entire family for the visit. received low marks in a report released by an “This report is a serious wake-up call to the departments and programs within the hospital. Designed to look and read like a school report objective panel of emergency medical experts. nation,” said Angela Gardner, MD, FACEP, a Entries assist parents and caregivers—no mat- by Arthur and his friends, the guide describes The first-ever National Report Card on the State practicing emergency physician in Texas and ter where they live—in understanding such hospital experiences in simple terms, and covers of Emergency Medicine finds an emergency care chair of ACEP’s Report Card Task Force. “It complex conditions as anorexia nervosa, hypo- in detail three types of visits: doctor’s visits, pre- system characterized by overcrowding, declin- shows that in every category, some states are plastic left heart syndrome, spina bifida, short operative visits, and hospital stays. Another fre- ing access to care, soaring liability costs and a making progress and some are lagging far behind. bowel syndrome, and brain tumors, as well quently visited area is the “Experience Journal” poor capacity to deal with public health or ter- If the emergency medical system gets a C- on as many others. Information on more com- where young patients and their families have rorist disasters. an average day, how can it ever be expected mon ailments and preventive measures is also shared their personal medical experiences. Parents The nation’s emergency medical care system to provide expert, efficient care during a natu- included—from the common cold to influenza, can also request an appointment online. The site received an overall grade of C-, which rep- ral disaster or terrorist attack? Our local, state splinters to burns, animal bites and scratches to includes general information about the hospital, resents the average of grades for all 50 states and national leaders need to work closely with acne, allergies and avoiding asthma triggers to as well as a rich variety of resources about each and the District of Columbia. A task force of emergency medicine experts to ensure that all infant nutrition, grief and bereavement to stut- department and specialty.# experts assembled by the American College of Americans can receive the emergency medical tering, growth rates to how to tell the difference Emergency Physicians used a range of available care they need and expect.” between a minor problem vs. a true emergency, data to develop 50 measures for grading each Specific findings from the Report Card and much, much more. state on a scale of A through F for its support in include: four areas: Access to Emergency Care, Quality Access to Emergency Care this category—California, Montana, Nevada, and viding quality, timely emergency care was erod- and Patient Safety, Public Health and Injury Seven states led the nation, earning “A” grades Texas. Twelve states received failing grades for ing, but even we weren’t prepared for how dire Prevention, and Medical Liability Environment. in the category—Connecticut, the District of their medical liability environments—Arkansas, the situation is in some states,” said Dr. Blum. “Americans assume they will receive life- Columbia, Maine, Massachusetts, Ohio, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Maryland, “The important thing to remember is that in vir- saving emergency care when and where they Pennsylvania and Rhode Island—with no state New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, tually every category we considered, at least one need it, but increasingly this isn’t the case,” receiving a failing grade. The category looked Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia and state is doing an excellent job. These models can said Frederick C. Blum, MD, FACEP, president at the availability of emergency care resources, Wyoming—30 others had near failing grades. be analyzed and adapted to improve emergency of ACEP. “Our report found the nation’s sup- as well as certain kinds of state health spend- This category assessed increases in state medi- care for everyone, regardless of what state one port for emergency medical care is mediocre ing, including public funding of health insur- cal liability rates as well as reform initiatives. lives in.” or worse. Most Americans would not accept ance, which makes more resources available to Problems with a state’s medical liability climate ACEP officials say they will continue to mea- mediocre treatment or mediocre medicines; they everyone. can lead to physician shortages, delays in patient sure state efforts and improvements in emergency also should not accept mediocre support of an Nine states received D grades: Alabama, care and increased patient transfers. care over time, using this report as an initial emergency medical system that they expect to Arkansas, Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Nevada, New Although the Report Card found a general benchmark.# be of the highest quality when their lives hang in Mexico, Texas, and Utah. correlation between the overall wealth of a state The American College of Emergency Physicians the balance. In a nation that has prided itself on Quality of Care and Patient Safety and better grades, it also found that some of the (ACEP) is the national medical specialty society providing the highest-quality medical care in the Eight states led the nation, earning “A” grades nation’s historically poorest states earned better- representing emergency medicine with more than world, anything less than an A is unacceptable.” in this category—Connecticut, Delaware, than-average grades—South Carolina and West 23,000 members. ACEP is committed to improv- While no state received an overall A grade, District of Columbia, Georgia, Iowa, New Jersey, Virginia—demonstrating their commitment to ing the quality of emergency care through con- California ranked first in the nation, followed Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Three states high-quality emergency care. They also discov- tinuing education, research, and public educa- by Massachusetts, Connecticut, and the District received “F” grades—Kansas, Nevada and South ered that states with lower population densities tion. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, ACEP has of Columbia, all earning the highest overall B Dakota—and 17 others earning “D” grades. generally faced greater deficits in emergency 53 chapters representing each state, as well as grades. The report found that half the states were This category looked at state support for train- care. Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, and a providing below-average support for their emer- ing emergency physicians and EMS personnel “As emergency physicians providing care to Government Services Chapter representing emergency medical systems, earning poor or near- as well as patient access to ambulances and 911 millions of Americans each year, my colleagues gency physicians employed by military branches failing grades. Arkansas, Idaho and Utah had services. and I knew the environment for consistently pro- and other government agencies. the weakest support, receiving the worst overall Public Health and Injury Prevention grade of D. Five states led the nation, earning “A” The Report Card provides local, state and fed- grades in this category—California, Maryland, eral officials with information to identify their Massachusetts, Michigan, and New York. Forty- UNION SETTLEMENT HOME CARE SERVICES, INC. states’ strengths and areas for improvement, while one states earned a “C” or lower in support for CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY allowing them to make comparisons and learn health and safety programs, with two states, with from other states. The task force analyzed data Montana and South Dakota earning “F” grades. Union Settlement Home Care Services, located at 174 East 104th Street, New York, NY celebrated from sources including the American Medical This category focused on lessening the need for its 25th Anniversary Year celebration with a community Open House series. “All too often people Association, the American Nurses Association, emergency care due to traumatic injury or pre- facing an illness don’t know where to turn for comfort and support, “said Cheryl Patterson-Artis, the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation and the ventable illnesses. It looked at indicators, such as ACBSW, MRE, MST, Director of Operations, for Union Settlement Home Care Services. “Through this celebration, our goal is to diminish the fears that make people reluctant to talk about homecare U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, whether the state had seat belt and helmet laws, and let them know about the supportive, compassionate and pain-relieving services that we pro- among others. A task force of emergency phy- domestic violence programs, as well as state vide”, stated Ms. Patterson-Artis. sicians applied the grades by considering 50 immunization rates and the number of mothers Union Settlement Home Care Services, Inc. licensed by the NYS Dept. of Health, has pro- measurements that were common to all states. receiving prenatal care. vided more than 25 years of quality service to elderly and disabled persons throughout NYC and A “curved” grading system was used—applying Medical Liability Environment Westchester County. As a nonprofit organization, their mission is to support the families and clients grades by comparing each state with the highest Four states led the nation, earning “A” grades in with professional competence, respect, reliability and compassion. Basic health care is provided from two to 24 hours a day, by a staff totaling more than 350 home health aides, personal care aides and registered nurses. Home Care Workers assist with daily activities, including cooking, cleaning and shopping. Currently, Union Settlement Home Care serves approximately 300 clients in four of Sales People Needed at Education Update the boroughs with five contractors. Union Settlement Home Care Service, Inc is a member of Home Care Council of New York City, Excellent Commission • Great Working Environment • Central Location Inc., helping shape NYC’s policies for professional standards in the healthcare industry. They are also part of the Union Settlement Association, which celebrated their 110th year Anniversary in 2005, serving the East Harlem community and New York City at large, since 1895. Union Settlement has Email us [email protected] been a trusted force in New York City. Today, the agency serves more than 13, 000 people each year with effective programs in education, health, childcare, senior care, adult literacy, job training, nutri- Fax us at 212-477-5893 tion, recreation, cultural activities, counseling and economic development.# EDUCATION UPDATE ■ FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS & STUDENTS ■ FEBRUARY 2006

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Special Group Rates for 15 or more• No deposit & flexible payment policies• FREE Group Leader ticket available Certain restrictions apply. Offer not available for all performances. Discount tickets subject to availability. Not all seats arere discounted.discounted. BlackoutBlackout datesdates maymay apply.apply. Minimum purchase required for group leader ticket. Ask your group sales representative for complete details.