Multiculturalism

The articles were a little overboard, however they were very interesting. The first article I read was “The Challenges of Multiculturalism.”  The author of this article, I felt like, had a problem with Blacks creating their own history that did not include White Americans. In addition, had a problem with African Americans teaching that history in the school system were the majority of the students were African Americans.

The second article, I read was “Pithissippi Burning.” I thought this article was the most comical. For example, any negative comment about Hillary Clinton qualifies as a “hate speech.” That statement proves that race is very much a touchy discussion. As well as, the color of your skin determines how far a comment will be taken out of content.

The last article, I read was “Why Multicultural is Wrong.” This was my favorite article because not only did the article ask a question, but also it provided direct and explicit answers. Multiculturalism can be a negative thing when you have single-minded people in charge making the decisions. For example, the article talked about a program in the Netherlands that basically teaches one language to multilingual individuals. This shows how important language is to cultures and countries.

As I reflected over all three articles, I can easily make a connection to my own experiences with diversity in the classroom. I have had many obstacles because of my race, however I don’t allow that to keep me from my dreams and goals. I came to the conclusion a long time ago that reality is reality and there is nothing I can do about it. As the saying goes, “It is what it is!”

Religion in School?

As I read “Religion in Schools” and Library of Congress Artifact, it just reminds me that some people have too much time on their hands. People will sue over anything! I believe that there should be a separation of school and state. However, I don’t believe that a moment of silence has anything to do with religion. I look at the moment of silence as a time for the students and myself to reflect on our goals for the day. And as it relates to the pledge, I have always had my students to stand when the Pledge of Allegiance is spoken, however I do not force them to say the pledge. I believe that individuals should show respect to the flag. The American flag is a symbol of honor and respect that’s why it is illegal to burn the flag. We as Americans have to show respect to the country or why are you here?

The comparison between both articles show that the right of speech is guaranteed in each situation. For example, students should have the choice to sit quietly during the moment of silence without praying and students should not be required to say the Pledge of Allegiance.

The differences between the two articles are each article discusses different lawsuits, which were brought upon by two different religion groups. The two religion groups were Jehovah’s Witness and Atheists. Also, one case was about the Pledge of Allegiance and the other case was about the moment of silence.

Innovators and Makers

The information on both PBS and Gatto's site were very informative. I never knew how many everyday people made impacts on history. I believe that each of the innovators were just doing something that they felt strongly about, not to get a prize for doing it. For example, Linda Brown Thompson probably never realized that her and her parents actions would bring an end to segregation in public education. Also, I believe that the makers were individuals before there time to be able to develop and design inventions that are still used in today's society. For example, Henry Ford is the vehicular dynasty. Ford is still one of America's top car maker thanks to Henry Ford's vision.

I believe the major differences between the innovators and makers are their backgrounds. The innovators were products of their accomplishments. Their accomplishments began with struggles. For example, Jose Angel Gutierrez demanded equal treatment for Chicano students. Also, Catherine Beecher fought for women to receive to education. On the other hand, the makers were visionaries. They planned and created a design that is tangible. In addition, the makers made a profit off of their designs, whereas the innovators accomplishments are not tangible, nor did they receive any monetary allowances.

Linda Brown Thompson and Henry Ford have had a huge influence on education. Linda Brown Thompson opened the door for millions of African American students to receive an equal education as their white counterparts received. Also, Henry Ford had a significant part in transportation which is the primarily way for many students to go back and forth to school each day. So both Linda and Henry made history in their own way. I say thank you!!

How's Your Weekend?

I hope everyone had a fabulous weekend!!!

Welcome

My name is Kimberly, however my alias is Kymberlie! I am part of the Williamson County EDS cohort. My planned graduation date is May 2010 (yay). I hope to gain a lot of knowledge from this class and implement it into my future administrative role!