TO THINK CRITICALLY: what would you do?

As a preschool teacher, I try to stay abreast of the issues facing young children today, especially debates around social rights. One of the most intriguing debates to me over the last year or so has been the one around transgendered youth. I think, mostly, it is because I cannot imagine the depth of ethical dilemmas facing the parents of transgendered youth. I was so proud of the Washington Post (not that I am in a position to patronize the Post) for raising awareness by putting this article on the cover of their Sunday paper today. And, while I recognize others will disagree with me, I also feel tremendous respect for the family for making decisions they truly believe will make their child happy, and sharing their story in such a mainstream way to help others in similar positions.

PS: Did you see this story last year on the Canadian family that chose to raise a genderless baby?

[image via]

happy primary day!

Happy New Hampshire primary day!

In 2007, fresh out of my undergrad political science classes and eager to change the world, I interned on John McCain’s presidential campaign in New Hampshire. Living in Boston, it was easy enough to get back and forth to be a part of a major national political scene. I majored in political science and journalism, after all; I wanted to work on campaigns! In the middle of editorial-writing, mail-stuffing, phone calling, and stumping out in the streets, one thing really stood out to me: all of the blips we got on educational policy. Especially around early childhood education. And somehow, I got my hands on the “30 Million Word Gap” study by Hart and Risley. And, I remember thinking: if every single person who wants to change the world goes and teaches preschool, we wouldn’t need “transformational” politicians to make our country a better place. Our kids would grow up and do it!

Front and center at a Republican debate in June 07

[photo from CNN's website]

And so began my career in education. Well, sort of. With lots of twists and turns, first in Boston, then D.C., first in administration and now in the classroom. The New Hampshire primary will always be near and dear to my heart, as will American campaigns, even if I did end up teaching 3-year-olds.