Melinda Person

Political conflict and the culture wars have been dominating our headlines, causing many Americans to feel resigned about our ability to govern… 42% of Americans say they are actively avoiding the news.

May marks the 70th anniversary of the landmark ruling Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka. The 1954 Supreme Court case unanimously ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional.

Poverty. It’s a political issue. It’s a social justice issue. And it’s an education issue. In fact, it’s the elephant in the room whenever we talk about education in America. And a mighty elephant it is, because poverty plays into every aspect of a child’s health, well-being and academic success.

This story begins in the Helderberg mountains in Albany County, where four hill towns sit overlooking the valley cut by the Hudson River. These communities make up about 40 percent of Albany county’s geography, but they make up less than 4 percent of its population.

As we approach the end of 2023, I'm reflecting on the remarkable influence labor unions have had across our nation this year. From historic strikes to groundbreaking negotiations, unions have not only championed workers' rights, they have reemerged as a beacon for bringing a fairer and more equitable economy for all.

Just a few months into this school year, it’s become all too clear that the impacts of excessive screen time and social media use are profoundly affecting every aspect of our children’s lives.

Every start to an academic year is a time of hope and renewal in schools. September is an exciting and exhilarating time, an opportunity for a fresh start.

Pub·lic — what does that mean? If you look it up in the dictionary you’ll see:

Everyone can name teachers who changed their life for the better.