In a century and a half since the Civil War and the "emancipation" of Blacks from slavery, the 13th amendment, and over 50 years since Brown vs. the Board of Education, our community is still in crisis. Statistics show that Blacks have more than doubled the rates of poverty, infant mortality and unemployment, and the school graduation and incarceration levels for young city Black men are crippling our community. Education is one of the best weapons to fight against these issues.

However, a walk through the halls of many inner city public secondary schools reveals a disturbing picture. students who attempt to focus on learning are often ridiculed by other students. many students routinely disrespect teachers, administrators, their parents, and each other. They fail to do class work and believe homework is not necessary. Students repeatedly receive failing grades and are passed on to the next grade. Schools are plaqued with violence and students are often afraid to come to school. Suspensions, expulsions, and drop out rates signal that a large percentage of our children are not receiving an education at all. many parents report that they can't control their kids. Other parents fight the school to overlook negative behavior of their children.

It's time for parents, the school, students, and the community to unite in order to save the lives of our youth.

As parents we must get involved in our children's education. Visit the school, volunteer, talk to your child about school, review and discuss homework and class work everyday! Emphasize the importance of being in school. Ask your child to write a summary of what they learned and what occurred in school. Keep a home journal so that even if they are asleep when you get in, you can read about their day. Get feedback from the teacher. Don't wait for report cards!

As teachers and school administrators we must seek to establish an environment of caring and high expections. All students must be made to believe they can achieve. Higher expectations, greater resources, the best teachers, smaller classes, educational strategies for all learning styles, and counseling and guidance must be made available to all students. Children will develop low self-esteem and seek and accept an inferior status if they perceive that is the expectation. We need to nurture a system of public education that will respect and encourage the genius of all our children.

As students we must make education a priority. Education is more important than acquiring tha latest fashion, being popular, or fitting in with the in-crowd. Education is the key to the future and the future belongs to those who prepare for it today. Set the example for your peers, study, complete all assignments and excel in all that you do. We must truly understand the quote that,"it takes a village to raise a child." Get involved in the schools. EVERYBODY MUST DO SOMETHING!! There is no time to waste. Say to yourself,"if it is to be, it is up to me."Do your part! Act Now!! Yes there has been progress but we still have a long way to go.