My therapist has challenged me to celebrate myself in this season—and to push past the fear of telling my story. She’s also challenged me to stay connected to why I share it. I share my story because I want people to know that God can and will help the underdog. I want schools to …
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In today’s rapidly evolving world, preparing young people for success is about more than academic achievement—it’s about equipping them with the skills to lead, adapt, and thrive in uncertain environments. The 21st century demands a new kind of preparation—one that starts early, centers youth voice, and bridges the gap between learning and labor. The future …
Originally published in the January 2024 issue of Little Rock Soirée.Republished here with permission.Click here to view the original article. Every month, I spend a little time reflecting on where I came from and the experiences that have made me the socially conscious leader I am today. That reflection time usually takes me on a …
Greatness in the Middle: Why It’s Time to Champion Overlooked StudentsBy Raymond Long When we talk about education achievement gap, we tend to focus on the high achievers who soar or the students in crisis who stumble. But in the quiet middle of every classroom are students who are neither failing nor excelling—students with C …
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This article originally appeared in the Fall 2024 edition of UA – Pulaski Tech IMPACT Magazine. Used with permission. To view the full publication, visit: https://mediaserver.uaptc.edu/impact/fall24 The(UA-PTC) is a pillar of educational opportunity in Arkansas. As a proud alumnus and current chairman of the Board of Visitors, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact this …
In a time marked by mental health crises, learning loss, and widening opportunity gaps, one thing is clear: mentoring is no longer optional—it’s essential. Across the country, a new generation of youth mentoring models is emerging, and they’re changing the way we think about education, equity, and emotional support. But these aren’t the mentoring programs …
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Why The Green Light to Be Great Is a Movement for Every Young Person Across communities and classrooms, there are young people full of talent and ambition—yet slowed down by systems that make them second-guess their potential. Some are overlooked. Others are underestimated. Many are told, subtly or directly, that their starting point defines their …
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