A Student's Perspective: Part I

For years there has been a literacy gap in the U.S. between males and females.  Based on my previous blog entries, I'm sure it's no surprise that the gap is even wider for African American boys than other sub-groups.  Research on this issue identifies quite a few possible reasons for this gap to include:

• Inadequate early literacy experiences
• Inattention to their learning styles
• Racism and stereotyping in schools
• Lack of male role models

I have witnessed each of the above issues in various educational settings. Yet, I have also seen many young black male students thrive and soar to great heights!  I decided to ask one of my former students about his experiences with reading.  Justin is currently a freshmen at Appalachian State University.  While in high school, he was an elite athlete but also cared deeply about his grades and his future.

Justin knows that reading matters.  "Reading is very important.  Pretty much everything in life has to do with reading," he stated.  He is exactly right.  Reading is essential to a complete life.  Without it, students and adults alike are destined to struggle in our ever evolving global society.

Schools have a responsibility to all students; but Justin knows that his greatest influence and support came from home.  When asked, Justin shared that, "Not my teachers so much but my mom had a huge influence on me with reading.  She would always make me read an hour a day."  Great job mom!

Without a doubt, parents are in the best position to ensure the success of their children.  Providing a place for reading and then holding kids accountable as Justin's mom did are sure ways to arm our young men with tools for success.  It's unfortunate that this does not always happen.

The literacy gap is real.  But why?  Why do so many of our young men underperform?  Justin believes "They perform so low because some of them don't treat school as a priority anymore.  They don't care about school."  Sadly, many black male students feel this way as early as 4th or 5th grade. 
I appreciate Justin's input and I am so very proud of him for setting such an excellent example. Great things lie ahead for him!

I'm a firm believer that each one should teach one.  The literacy gap is daunting but each one of us can have an impact. If you are reading this, you can make a difference!  Will you?  Think about it and act on it!  Until next time...Happy Reading!