I want to wish everyone a Happy 2009 New Year! 2008 was a good year, but I foresee 2009 only getting better despite America's financial crisis. Good luck to all my readers! May all your wishes come true!
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Happy Birthday Avery!
Today was one of the most important days of my life. It was the 1st birthday of my son, Avery. It's still hard to believe that a year has gone by. Watching him grow up everyday is a constant reminder that life is a beautiful thing.
During moments of his birthday I found myself reflecting back to the night we received the phone call that he was born. Since that day, memories of excitement and pure joy have filled the life of my wife and I. Again, we are truly blessed!!
As you would expect, he was rightfully spoiled by our families. He has everything and more that a 1 year old could need and most importantly we have him.
Happy Birthday Little man!
We love you!
Papi
------
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Friday, November 7, 2008
The Next President & Education
When our next President takes office in a couple of months he will have a multitude of critical items that will require his immediate attention. One item that I know that is on his short list is the state of education in America. He plans on making some necessary changes to NCLB and implementing a variety of other educational initiatives that will affect P-16 as a whole. If you would like to read more specifically about his plans check out his education agenda on his website, Change.Gov.
Again, I am eager to see what transpires in education under his new administration. I hope he puts the right people in place that would allow for our antiquated educational system to change and meet the needs of the 21st Century student. I hope he looks at focusing and reducing the racial educational achievement gap. The necessary changes will require some tough conversations and difficult decisions by all parties; both of which he is capable of doing. Lastly, education is the essential foundation to changing this country and improving our lives.
Once again good luck and if you need any help I am only an email away!
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Hope Won!
I wanted to acknowledge all of those individuals who went out and voted this year. Many of my friends including my wife were first time voters. It is great to see that the person many of us wanted won, in fact many believe hope won. The hope and faith that has been missing from this country for quite sometime has now been reignited. Obama is our choice, but as he said in his acceptance speech he will need the commitment and involvement of all of us to help America during these tough times. I want to take this moment to wish our President Elect good luck!! You have my unwavering support along with millions of others.
On a historical note; My son will always know that even he could become president. Congratulations Mr. Barack Obama!
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Up Where We Belong
Recently I had the opportunity and privilege of attending the 2nd Annual Up Where We Belong Conference in Atlanta, GA. I had attended this event as part of the RCSD's Diversity Department's initiative to bring some relevant training and best practices back to the district. While I was there I attended a variety of workshops on what different individuals are doing in their regions of America to help promote the achievement of African American and Black students. None of the workshops had any new information but did exhibit other individuals who are passionate for the cause and those who have made some improvements in their areas. In its totality the conference served as a reminder of how much work there is still yet to do.
Also as part of the conference I had the opportunity to explore and visit the "Triangle." That is the area that hosts Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University, and Moorehouse College. This was the highlight of the conference in my opinion. I had never been exposed to an HBCU (Historically Black College and University). While visiting these campuses I was exposed to an abundance of history that is a integrated into these campuses. The alumni lists of these institutions look like a who's who of the most successful African Americans. While I was being toured through the campus of Moorehouse, I thought to myself, what I wouldn't do to grab some of these kids and bring them to my high school. The exposure to my students that institutions like this exist, and that they are heavily attended by students who look, think and represent them would provide a resounding affect. Often times it is just access to information and exposure that students in urban education settings often lack.
The conference only lasted two days, but again served as an important reminder of what work has been done and how much is still left to do in decreasing the racial achievement gap. I also left with a renewed spirit that what I am doing is hard and important work, but that I must look at increasing the magnitude of what I am doing. I hope that someone will soon begin to listen to my ideas, and thoughts. That they will take advantage of my passion on improving the educational experience of inner-city youth. As I have previously stated my time will come!!
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Thursday, October 16, 2008
True Life:Surviving RIT
Last night I had the opportunity to once again address a mixture of college students. I was asked by one of my fraternity brothers to deliver a presentation on being successful in college. Although I have never attended R.I.T. the components of my message are pretty universal. My presentation was followed by a panel of 5th year Seniors at R.I.T. who represent a variety of cultures, and majors. The students spoke genuinely about the positive and not so positive experiences they have had in their lives and at R.I.T. They also offered the students advice, and gave them honest opinions on what they felt worked for them. Although none of the students have graduated yet, they are definitely in the final stretch.
As I sat there listening to what they had to say, I found myself desperately wanting to throw all of them into my SUV and bring them to school the next day. Why, you may ask? Because they are a direct reflection of my students. My students, do not have role models or connections to the world that is achievable through education. Role models and mentors that not only look like them but also exhibit the importance of college attainment.
I would like to give kudos to Mr. Sean Bennett, Director of the North Star Center, who sponsored this event with the ideas of Mr. Shaun Villanueva. Mr. Bennett is definitely an advocate and agent for change at R.I.T. Good Luck as their is still much to do on your campus.
Living the Dream!
Mr. Soler
As I sat there listening to what they had to say, I found myself desperately wanting to throw all of them into my SUV and bring them to school the next day. Why, you may ask? Because they are a direct reflection of my students. My students, do not have role models or connections to the world that is achievable through education. Role models and mentors that not only look like them but also exhibit the importance of college attainment.
I would like to give kudos to Mr. Sean Bennett, Director of the North Star Center, who sponsored this event with the ideas of Mr. Shaun Villanueva. Mr. Bennett is definitely an advocate and agent for change at R.I.T. Good Luck as their is still much to do on your campus.
Living the Dream!
Mr. Soler
Friday, October 3, 2008
MCC Latino Male Retention Program
Yesterday I had the opportunity and privilege to speak to an all male Latino based MCC Retention Program. I was asked by a colleague of mine, if I would come and speak to the class. She wanted me to share my message of education and expose the students to another successful Latino male. As I previously stated, I was honored.
I presented a slide show very similar to what I had shown students at the University of Rochester's event a couple of weeks ago. The theme and message was still relevant to this group of students. Throughout the presentation we had, great "teachable moments" and instances where students were inspired. In particularly when we spoke about getting involved on campus, and making your mark. The students looked at this statement as their opportunity to reignite a club that has diminished over the past couple of years, "Latin Pride." I hope they take up the challenge and reestablish this once existent program. There is a huge void for the Latino student body at MCC, and hopefully these 13 young men will change that for future generations of Latinos who enroll at MCC.
I would also challenge them to recreate the name of the program, as it labels them already as having a deficit with the word "retention." We all know that they don't have a deficit but rather an untapped opportunity!
Ultimately, what I enjoyed the most, was that these students stood before me as a reflection of myself 13 years ago. Most come from various backgrounds and support systems but all have one thing in common, the desire to do great things. They have much work to be done, but with the guidance of Professor Alas, and Professor Quinones-Rosado they will be just fine.
Good luck and keep Living the Dream mi hermanitos! Adelante!!
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
www.anibalsoler.com
I presented a slide show very similar to what I had shown students at the University of Rochester's event a couple of weeks ago. The theme and message was still relevant to this group of students. Throughout the presentation we had, great "teachable moments" and instances where students were inspired. In particularly when we spoke about getting involved on campus, and making your mark. The students looked at this statement as their opportunity to reignite a club that has diminished over the past couple of years, "Latin Pride." I hope they take up the challenge and reestablish this once existent program. There is a huge void for the Latino student body at MCC, and hopefully these 13 young men will change that for future generations of Latinos who enroll at MCC.
I would also challenge them to recreate the name of the program, as it labels them already as having a deficit with the word "retention." We all know that they don't have a deficit but rather an untapped opportunity!
Ultimately, what I enjoyed the most, was that these students stood before me as a reflection of myself 13 years ago. Most come from various backgrounds and support systems but all have one thing in common, the desire to do great things. They have much work to be done, but with the guidance of Professor Alas, and Professor Quinones-Rosado they will be just fine.
Good luck and keep Living the Dream mi hermanitos! Adelante!!
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
www.anibalsoler.com
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Hispanic Heritage Month
I hope this post serves as a reminder to many of you. This time of the year often gets over look by those in the hegemonic group, from September 15-October 15 it is National Hispanic Heritage Month. A time to stop, think and celebrate the various cultures that are present within our Hispanic and Latino communities.
Read more about Hispanic Heritage Month here: National Hispanic Heritage Month
Living the Dream!
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
www.anibalsoler.com
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Latino Leadership Development Program
Today, I had the privilege and opportunity to present to a room of thirty highly motivated Latina/o professionals. These individuals were participating in the Latino Leadership Development Program which is organized and hosted by United Way of Rochester. My presentation was entitled, "The State of Latino Students and Education In Our Community."
My presentation focused entirely on what I see supported by data and research, occurring in urban public schools. I spoke about the student cultural experience or lack thereof for Latina/o students in schools. I also spoke and displayed some data on our overall underachievement in K-12 schooling, which supported and clearly stated we are the worst of the big three demographic groups with the highest percentage of failure. I finished the presentation with a variety of various reccomendations that I believe could help alleviate and address the issue of inadequate success by Latina/o's.
The presentation, as all of them do, went quickly. We had a great panel conversation that followed my piece. A couple of days later I receieved various emails and facebook messages, letting me know how much they enjoyed what I had to say along with my overall presence. It is definitely great to hear these type of things, especially when you believe in so much in what your doing!
As I told the participants listening to my presentation, "Make Your Mark!"
Living the Dream!!
Mr. Soler
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Elite Success
Today I had the opportunity to speak to various college level students at the University of Rochester. My message was simple, leave your mark!! The contents of my message also spoke of the importance that minority students make it out of a system that has been setup without our views or perspective. I also spoke of the lack of representation of minority students on various campuses and in particular the University of Rochester. My message also spoke about navigating the college scene and using various college resources to ensure elite success. The event concluded with a Q&A session which I enjoyed the most because you get to see and hear what concerns are most important to the students.
The event was hosted by La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc.
Living the Dream!
Mr. Soler
Shhh... Class is in Session
The start of another great school year is underway! I am entering my third year as a high school administrator (Academy Director) and I have begun to see items that I started three years ago start to fall in place. The staff is at an all time high in terms of morale and the building has had no change in administration or leadership. The first week has gone very smoothly and looks like it will be an even greater year!
I am looking forward to seeing what initiatives and programs the new Superintendent will put in place during his first full year at the helm. I am sure he is just as excited with the opening of school. I will keep you all posted as the year goes along.
Living the Dream!
Mr. Soler
I am looking forward to seeing what initiatives and programs the new Superintendent will put in place during his first full year at the helm. I am sure he is just as excited with the opening of school. I will keep you all posted as the year goes along.
Living the Dream!
Mr. Soler
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Good Luck Jasmine!
Today my cousin is off to college. She is the third of my immediate family to go and she will be attending Daemen College in Amherst, New York.
Hey, what a coincidence that's my old stomping ground. I am so proud of her, as is the rest of the family. I wish I was going back as well, boy do I miss those times. Good luck Jazzy and don't look back, the future is yours!
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
RCSD graduation rates on the rise, but what about Latinos?
Today, the Rochester City School District held a press conference releasing the positive news that graduation rates are going up in the school district. In fact they are up 6% from last years 39%. Superintendent Brizard acknowledged the fact that although the numbers are positive there is still much work to do. He spoke of a new web based program that will help schools keep track of their incoming 9th graders and follow them throughout their four years. The web based software program will be the main tool used to identify what supports are needed for students to ensure they complete high school within four years. Superintendent Brizard, also spoke of various programs that will be in place that will allow various non-traditional students, or students with special circumstance the opportunity to graduate on time.
One thing that wasn't talked about at all in the media, was the success of Latino students in the RCSD. Over the past three years their graduation rate has increased, but they are still the lowest of the three major ethnic groups. Latinos also possess the highest percentage of dropouts within the city school district at 35%, a title which they have also had for quite some time. Latino students make up 21% of the student population within the school district but the reflection in teaching staff, and school leadership is not the same. In fact no one except for School Board member, Melisza Campos represents the Latino voice in the Rochester City School District. If you look at the restructuring makeup of Central office and the key positions, you will notice an obvious void or lack of an individual who is Latino and represents the voice of Latinos students and community members within the Superintendents leadership cabinet.
So, I wonder why hasn't the Latino community come forward in outrage? Why haven't they called for immediate action to this crisis affecting our children? Why isn't the Rochester City School District investing in resources or programs to help alleviate this matter? What is being done to ensure Latinos will have the same opportunity to graduate as their classmates of other ethnic backgrounds? What is being done instructionally to allow students dominant in their native language of Spanish to be viewed as an asset rather then a criteria for academic hardship? If it is about every child, then why are they not represented in terms of school and district leadership? As you can tell I am very passionate about this subject and I have many questions, concerns and recommendations when it comes to the education of my people.
If nothing changes, another year will go by and Latinos will continue to fall into the same categories. The time is now to take a stand and bring about change to this crisis. If not me then who? In the words of Dr. King, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?' "
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
--
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
7 Months as a Father
It has been an amazing 7 months since my son stepped into my life. It has been filled with many long nights and exciting days! My son has brought a new found joy to my family and a new role for myself. He is truly a blessing and has brought a renewed perspective and purpose on life. His innocence, energy and curiosity is contagious and often times refreshing in a world that could burn you at a moments notice.
Time is going so fast and I often catch myself worried that soon enough he will be asking me for advice on women, sports, school and life. He will be watching my every move and looking at me as his benchmark on life. I will have to set the bar high for my son, and I will also have to support him at all times to ensure that he is successful at whatever he chooses.
Bottom line, he is always going to be looking up to me.
Avery, I love you!
Papi
------
Living the Dream!
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
www.anibalsoler.com
Sunday, July 27, 2008
MLK National Historic Site
While attending the AVID Summer Institute in Atlanta, GA I found some time to get away and visit the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s National Historic Site. I, along with some of my colleagues walked over to the site from our hotel. As we were walking down we could see the history and the depletion of the neighborhood which once thrived in the sixties. Many of the buildings were torn down and uninhabited. There were many homeless individuals occupying various parts of the neighborhood.
When we finally arrived at the site, it was as if you had walked into the past. The first thing you saw was Dr. King's church, Ebenezer Baptist. The same church that he attended and the same church that held his premature funeral. I was standing on the same street, as thousands of people where 40 years ago during his funeral procession. I also took a photo near he and his wife's tombstone.
While I was there I learned many new things about the life of Dr. King. One thing that stuck with me the most was this quote that was posted in the museum.
"Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or the darkness of selfishness. This the judgement. Life's most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?”
These words, are words that I try to live by everyday as an educator, father, husband, mentor and friend. I must remember that my life will be measured ultimately by what I have done for others.
Lastly, if you are in the area I highly recommend you visit this special site.
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Advancement Via Individual Determination-AVID
I just got back from Atlanta, GA were I attended a training session for AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) and let me start out by saying that I am eager to get underway.
AVID is a unique program targeted at middle of the road students who are often times invisible in the classroom. The type of students who get by academically and rarely cause any issues behaviorally. The students, that need some support and instruction on preparing themselves for college.
What impressed me most about the AVID program and the five day institute was the passion and fire that was there by the organization and by other attendees on making sure underrepresented students get to college.
This September, I along with my AVID site team will be embarking on our first cohort of AVID students. We have 46 students engaging in this journey. I will keep you all posted!
For more information on AVID check out their website: www.avidonline.org
Living the Dream!
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Missing in Action
It’s been a long time since my last blog post. Life has gotten hectic this summer. Currently, I am taking two sessions worth of Doctoral classes at the University of Rochester, working, and most importantly spending time with my wife and son. I promise to get refocused and reenergized with my posts.
Living the Dream!
Mr. Soler
Living the Dream!
Mr. Soler
Friday, May 23, 2008
Dr. Pedro Noguera
Today we had the privilege of having Dr. Pedro Noguera speak to our staff members as part of the building based professional development on Superintendents Conference Day. Since the beginning of my doctoral course work I have been a huge fan of Dr. Noguera. His research focus is primarily on race and urban education. He often looks at school reform and how it will impact various races and he also does a lot of work focusing on decreasing the racial achievement gap.
His message was very powerful and a reminder of what urban schools must be doing for students in education.
If you ever have the opportunity to read his work, or see him speak I encourage you to seize the moment. Read more about Dr. Pedro Noguera. (Click here)
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Charlotte High School Prom 2008
Time has flown by, and just the other night we had another successful magnificent event for our student body. We had our 2nd Annual Junior/Senior Prom. I am always amazed at how good our students look when they dress up. As expected our students had a great time and enjoyed another memorable night in their high school career.
My only wish is that more staff members would participate and attend this event so that they would view our students in a different lens and get a better understanding of what it is all about.
This event also brings us closer to graduation and now we only have a month.
The work continues!!!
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday to me! Today I turned 31 years old... boy does time fly by. I have to say in retrospect I have lived an excellent life. I have been very fortunate, and blessed in my 31 years of life so far.
Whenever I have a birthday I often find myself being more appreciative of what I have been giving and the experiences I have had. I still have a lot of work to do to ultimately get where I want, but I know I am on the right path.
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Keynote Speech 14th Annual Noche Dorada
The event was a success! Congratulations to all the undergraduate Hermanos who worked so hard on the event. I along with many alumni Hermanos had a great time! I have copied my speech below and I hope you feel the message as much as the crowd did that night.
Keynote Speech
Ladies and Gentleman, Damas y Caballeros, Let me first start out by saying thank you! Thank you for attending the 20th Anniversary of the Epsilon Chapter of La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. I want to also thank my Hermanos for giving me this opportunity to come before you today and deliver my message.
When my Hermanos asked me if I would be the keynote speaker tonight, I was thrilled. I didn’t hesitate for a moment at this opportunity, the opportunity to address the future leaders and difference makers of our world.
Before I proceed, I want to take a moment to recognize all of you in attendance that are achieving the dream. You are what I often state amongst colleagues, students and peers, Viviendo El Sueno, Living the Dream! Before I continue, please give yourself a round of applause!
This year’s theme is "Eternal Reflections: Viente Anos y Para Siempre!" For any of my non-Spanish speaking guest that is “20 years and Forever. “
This year’s theme speaks to our capability to live and learn from our past, to take what we know and continue pushing forward in our daily lives. This year’s theme creates an opportunity for us to reflect, and take a good look at ourselves as Latinos and citizens of this world. It also forces us to ask the question, are we as Latinos truly doing the best we can do for ourselves and our people with the privileges we have been given and earned. The term, “Eternal Reflections is the ability to always look at yourself in the mirror and see your past, present and future within yourself and everything you do and stand for.
Having said this, I am sure you are wondering who I am, and why am I here?
Before I get into specific details about me, you need to know some information from the past. Information that will help shed a light on why I do what I do, and why we are all here as an organization.
Twenty years ago, sixteen courageous Latino Men at Buffalo State College unified. These 16 young men at the time saw a void on their institution’s campus. They saw the lack of representation and voice for a growing Latino population. They found it very difficult to have their cultural needs meet through their college experience. They saw a lack of appreciation and recognition of their Latino “cultura.”
They decided to endure a process they would take them 13 and a half weeks, and finally on April 23, 1988, these young Latino men became the founding Hermanos of the Eternal Epsilon Chapter of La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. A chapter that started at one institution and has now since evolved into a citywide chapter encompassing nearly all institutions in the City of Buffalo.
I would like to take a moment to recognize these founding Hermanos, if you are in attendance please stand up to be recognized…
1. Hermano George Cruz
2. Hermano Caesar Cabrera
3. Hermano Albert Martinez
4. Hermano Alexis Bairan
5. Hermano Edgar Martinez
6. Hermano Francisco Guzman
7. Hermano John Tufino
8. Hermano Leslie Leon
9. Hermano Stan Luban
10. Hermano Alex Cruz
11. Hermano Anthony Cruz
12. Hermano Mike Rosell
13. Hermano Anthony Rivera
14. Hermano Renard Aikins
15. Hermano Richard Bertocci
16. Hermano Edwin Suarez El Segundo
Because of these men, I was able to join an organization that reaffirmed my commitment to the empowerment and betterment of all Latinos. Because of these men I also connected with three other individuals, who became my line brothers and life long Hermanos. This organization has taught me that all things are possible through education and collaboration with others who believe in the struggle. To date, there are approximately 100 young men from various backgrounds and beliefs who united under the vision of La Fraternidad and became Hermanos.
So now onto the present, and who am I?
Well as you previously heard, my name is Anibal Soler, I am currently an Academy Director/ Vice-Principal at Charlotte High School in the Rochester City School District. In case anyone was wondering I'm 100% Puerto Rican and very proud of my culture, as I am sure many of you are. I have grown up and lived the majority of my life in the City of Rochester. I attended public city schools up until my junior year of high school, when my parents had finally gained the means to own their own home, and we moved to the suburbs.
After graduating high school, I attended Daemen College in Amherst, NY on a basketball scholarship. Yeah, us Latino’s can play ball too. During my time at Daemen College, in the Spring of 98, I became an Hermano of La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. After becoming an Hermano and obtaining my undergraduate degree in teaching, I came back home to Rochester yet again. I worked full time as an Art teacher, at what was called at that time, Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Since graduating from Daemen College I have since obtained two master’s degrees, one from Nazareth College in educational technology and another from St. John Fisher College in educational administration. Currently, I am working on my doctorate at the University of Rochester in educational leadership.
I am sure many of you are sitting here and thinking, boy, that is a lot of school loans! Well you’re right, but well worth the ultimate goal, and we all know that knowledge is power.
Well, that’s enough about me, now let’s to get to why I am here.
I need you to take a moment to focus and critically consider the message I am going to deliver tonight. In my line of work, the country is in a state of crisis, some have called it a “silent epidemic.” As I have previously stated I am a high school Vice-Principal in the City of Rochester. I work in one of the five largest school districts in New York. I work in a school district that has approximately a 90% poverty rate. Many of my students come from homes and life experiences very similar to what many of you and I have encountered, except with them, I am losing more then I am gaining. I want you to understand that what the future holds is very critical for us, us as Latinos and us as a country.
A couple of weeks ago, ABC news reported that as a country, we have a national high school drop out rate of 50%. Ladies and gentlemen, that is 1.2 Million students dropping out a year. In Los Angeles the dropout rate is 45%, in Baltimore 34%, Miami 49%, and home to many of you, New York City, 47%. In Detroit 1 out of 4, 9th graders that entered school this year, will graduate. That is 25% graduation rate! Mi Gente, this has got to change!
Out of all the minorities not graduating, Latino’s are the highest. Latino’s are dropping out of high schools at an even alarming rate and are as much as 75% of the dropouts in America. In Rochester we have approximately 10,000 high school students, and if things don’t change and they continue to follow the current path, we will only graduate 40 percent of those students, that is 4,000 out of 10,000 high school students will be graduating. The majority of those not graduating in my school district are Latino’s. Latino’s in my school district are the highest of any minority group not making it out of high school. Again, the problem is real, and this has got to change!
According to the America’s Promise Alliance, every 26 seconds, one high school student drops out. Based off this statistic alone, by the time I get done speaking to you tonight, we will lose approximately 50 high school students.
In September of 2007, CNN reported that more Blacks and Latinos live in jail cells that in college dorms. The numbers are staggering. More then three times as many African-American people live in prison cells than in college dorms. The numbers don’t get any better for Latinos as there are 2.7 Latino inmates for every one Latino living in college housing. The majority of these inmates are also males.
This information also reflects the majority of the students dropping out of high school and not graduating. The bulk of them are also African-American and Latino. They live in poor unfunded inner cities. They come from homes and environments where they have little to no social support. They come from broken homes that have a single parent or grandparent raising them. The conversations about the value and importance of education are far and few in between in their lives.
For me, as I am sure was the case for many of you, college always felt like an option but only because my mother, and my Abuelo made it that way. They were my advocates. As the most educated person in my family, I feel a sense of pride but also a great appreciation. My mother never let me believe that the color of my skin or the amount of money we had would define my future. Instead, I got unfailing support. Now today, I am before students who are going through the same process and our coming from similar backgrounds. By showing and being the example for students that college is accessible, we can set an example for our future leaders. We all know that education is the foundation and the critical component for our success.
The time has changed, and today’s inner-city students need more support then ever, they need advocates and mentors in their lives.
Last year with the help of one of my Hermanos, I orchestrated the first ever free out of town overnight college trip for ten of my senior students at my high school. Ten students who knew the importance of college, but never had the opportunity to experience what it is like. Ten students, who had never left their neighborhood, were suddenly exposed to a completely new world of possibility. Last June, all ten students graduated high school and eight out of the ten enrolled in a college for the upcoming next year. This is just one example of what can be done.
I know this sounds crazy, but just last week , I had another example of the power and benefit of mentoring. A true example of what can occur if we all get involved in the life of a youth. I have been working with a young lady for this past school year. She comes from a broken home and has had many personal struggles throughout her life. She shows up to school every day with a smile and she makes sure that her academics are in place. This same young lady also works twenty plus hours at Wegmans to help make ends meet at home.
Last Friday at around noon, I took this young lady for an interview at the St. John Fisher College HEOP Office. An hour later, she was accepted, and as she turned to hug me outside of the office, she said, “Mr. Soler, I did it I am the first in my family to go to college, Thank you!” After that I walked her over to the bookstore to buy her, her first college t-shirt. Before I continue, I want to acknowledge that this would not be possible if I didn’t have the assistance of an Hermana of Sigma Lambda Upsilon Sorority, Inc. This is another example of why we must all be involved.
You are probably sitting there thinking what can I do to help? Well you have taken the first step. You have come and supported this organization through the purchase of your ticket. You have given a monetary donation that will be used by LUL to help impact the life of Latinos and other under represented groups on college campuses.
Before I leave you, tonight I want you to remember that your life will be measured not by how long you lived, but by what you have done during that time for others. So please make time to give to organizations such as LUL. If you cannot give financially then please give with your time, heart and dedication to doing what is our civic responsibility, of taking care of others. Make sure you go back to your college dorms, your work place and think how you may make a difference in the life of someone younger and less fortunate then yourself. Make sure you become an advocate for those students who are just as you were in high school. Again, this problem is real, and it is all of our responsibility to help.
Think back to what those 16 young Latino men did 20 years ago when they decided to create change and opportunity for the generations of Latinos to follow in college campuses in Buffalo.
I want to leave you tonight with some words from one of my all time favorite pieces of writing by Michael Josephson states, “Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident. It’s not a matter of circumstance but of choice. Choose to live a life that matters!”
Please help our youth, “Live the Dream!”
Thank you and Para Siempre!!
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
14th Annual Noche Dorada Banquet
I would like to remind everyone that I will be the keynote speaker at this year's 14th Annual Noche Dorada Banquet. It is also the 20th Anniversary celebration for my Chapter. I will repost my speech after this weekend. I look forward to seeing you all there!
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Monday, April 14, 2008
Keynote Speaker at Noche De Fuego
On April 11, 2008 I was honored to be the Keynote speaker at Noche De Fuego, a benefit dinner being held by Senoritas Latinas Unidas, Sigma Lambda Upsilon Sorority, Inc. The event was held at the Clarion Riverside Hotel. This was my first public speaking engagement, and below is my speech. Thanks again to all of those who attended. It was for a worthy cause.
Noche De Fuego Speech
Ladies and Gentleman, Damas y Caballeros, let me first start out by saying thank you! Thank you, for attending, Noche de Fuego and supporting the lovely Hermanas of Senoritas Latinas Unidas, Sigma Lambda Upsilon Sorrority, Inc. I want to also thank the Hermanas for giving me this opportunity to come before you today, and deliver my message. I am very humbled and honored to be here.
When the Hermanas asked me if I would be the keynote speaker tonight, I was thrilled. I didn’t hesitate for a moment at this opportunity, the opportunity to address the future leaders and difference makers of our world. The opportunity to address students, professionals and colleagues who come from a multitude of cultural backgrounds that need to hear, and know, that we are all we got.
Before I proceed, I want to take a moment to recognize all of you in attendance, all of you who are achieving the dream. You are often what I state amongst colleagues, students and peers, Viviendo El Sueno, Living the Dream! Before I continue please give your self a round of applause!
So who am I, and why am I here?
Well as you previously heard, my name is Anibal Soler, I am currently an Academy Director/ Vice-Principal at Charlotte High School in the Rochester City School District. I am 100% Puerto Rican and very proud of my culture, as I am sure many of you are. I have grown up and lived the majority of my life here in the city of Rochester. I attended city schools up until my junior year of high school, when my parents had finally gained the means to own their own home and we moved to the suburbs.
After graduating high school I attended Daemen College in Amherst, NY on a basketball scholarship. Yeah, us Latino’s can play ball too. During my time at Daemen College, I became an Hermano of La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. After becoming an Hermano and obtaining my undergraduate degree in teaching, I came back home to Rochester yet again. I worked full time as an Art teacher at what was called at that time, Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Since graduating from Daemen College I have since obtained two master’s degrees, one from Nazareth College in educational technology and another from St. John Fisher College in educational administration. Currently, I am working on my doctorate at the University of Rochester in educational leadership.
I am sure many of you are sitting here and thinking, boy, that is a lot of school loans! Well you’re right, but well worth the ultimate goal, and we all know that knowledge is power.
Well, that’s enough about me, and let’s to get to why I am here. I need you to take a moment to focus and critically consider the message I am going to deliver tonight. In my line of work, the country is in a state of crisis, some have called it a “silent epidemic.” As I have previously stated I am a high school Vice-Principal in the City of Rochester. I work in one of the five largest school districts in New York. I work in a school district that has approximately a 90% poverty rate. Many of my students come from homes and life experiences very similar to what many of you and I have encountered, except with them, I am losing more then I am gaining. I want you to understand that what the future holds is very critical for us, us as Latinos and us as a country.
Just last week ABC news reported that as a country, we have a national high school drop out rate of 50%. Ladies and gentlemen, that is 1.2 Million students dropping out a year. In Los Angeles the dropout rate is 45%, in Baltimore 34%, Miami 49%, and home to many of you, New York City, 47%. In Detroit 1 out of 4, 9th graders that entered school this year, will graduate. That is 25% graduation rate! People, this has got to change!
Out of all the minorities not graduating, Latino’s are the highest. Latino’s are dropping out of high schools at an even alarming rate and are as much as 75% of the dropouts in America. Here in Rochester we have approximately 10,000 high school students, and if things don’t change here and they continue to follow the current path, we will only graduate 40 percent of those students, that is 4,000 out of 10,000 high school students will be graduating. The majority of those not graduating in my school district are Latino’s. Latino’s in my school district are the highest of any minority group not making it out of high school. Again, the problem is real, and this has got to change!
According to the America’s Promise Alliance, every 26 seconds, one high school student drops out. Based off this statistic alone, by the time I get done speaking to you tonight, we will lose approximately 50 high school students.
In September of 2007, CNN reported that more Blacks and Latinos live in jail cells that in college dorms. The numbers are staggering. More then three times as many African-American people live in prison cells than in college dorms. The numbers don’t get any better for Latinos as there are 2.7 Latino inmates for every Latino living in college housing. The majority of these inmates are also males.
This information also reflects the majority of the students dropping out of high school and not graduating. The bulk of them are also African-American and Latino. They live in poor unfunded inner-cities. They come from homes and environments where they have little to no social support. They come from broken homes that have a single parent or grandparent raising them. The conversations about the value and importance of education are far and few in between in their lives.
For me, as I am sure was the case for many of you, college always felt like an option but only because my mother, and my grandparents made it that way. They were my advocates. As the most educated person in my family, I feel a sense of pride but also a great appreciation. My mother never let me believe that the color of my skin or the amount of money we had would define my future. Instead, I got unfailing support. Now today, I am before students who are going through the same process and our coming from similar backgrounds. By showing and being the example for students that college is accessible, we can set an example for our future leaders. We all know that education is the foundation and the critical component for our success.
The time has changed, and today’s inner-city students need more support then ever, they need advocates and mentors in their lives.
Last year with the help of one of my Hermanos, I orchestrated the first ever free out of town overnight college trip for ten of my senior students at my high school. Ten students who knew the importance of college, but never had the opportunity to experience what it’s like. Ten students, who had never left their neighborhood, were suddenly exposed to a whole new world of possibility. Last June all ten students graduated high school and 8 out of the 10 enrolled in a college for the upcoming next year. This is just one example of what can be done.
I know this sounds crazy, but just today, I had another example of the power and benefit of mentoring. A true example of what can occur if we all get involved in the life a youth. I have been working with a young lady for this past school year. She comes from a broken home and has had many personal struggles throughout her life. She shows up to school every day with a smile and she makes sure that her academics are in place. She also works twenty plus hours at Wegmans, to help make ends meet in her household. Today at around noon I took this young lady for an interview at the St. John Fisher College HEOP Office. An hour later she was accepted, and as she turned to hug me outside of the office, she said, “Mr. Soler, I did it I am the first in my family to go to college, thank you!” After that precious moment I walked her over to the bookstore to buy her, her first college t-shirt. Again, this is another example of why we must all be involved. Before I continue I want to thank Victoria McEachin for helping me out. Thank you Vicki!
You are probably sitting there thinking what can I do to help? Well you have taken the first step. You have come and supported this organization through the purchase of your ticket. You have given a monetary donation that will be used by SLU to help impact the life of a young lady.
SLU’s Ladies program is another example of doing what it takes to make a difference in the life of our youth. Their program has helped each participant gain college level skills, develop professionally, and most importantly learn about their culture. Since its inception in 2001, the program has helped touch the lives of young women. It is helped them realize that college is not inaccessible dream but a reality that they can achieve. Some of the participants are now enrolled at various colleges throughout New York State.
Before I leave you, tonight I want you to remember that your life will be measured not by how long you lived, but by what you have done during that time for others. So please make time to give to organizations such as SLU and their Lady’s Program. If you cannot give financially then please give with your time, heart and dedication to doing what is our civic responsibility, taking care of others. Make sure you go back to your college dorms, your work place and think how you may make a difference in the life of someone younger and less fortunate then yourself. Make sure you become an advocate for those students who are just like you were in high school. Again, this problem is real, and it is all of our responsibility to help.
As one of my all time favorite pieces of writing by Michael Josephson states, “Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident. It’s not a matter of circumstance but of choice. Choose to live a life that matters!”
Finally, please help our youth, “Live the Dream!”
Thank you!
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Noche De Fuego Speech
Ladies and Gentleman, Damas y Caballeros, let me first start out by saying thank you! Thank you, for attending, Noche de Fuego and supporting the lovely Hermanas of Senoritas Latinas Unidas, Sigma Lambda Upsilon Sorrority, Inc. I want to also thank the Hermanas for giving me this opportunity to come before you today, and deliver my message. I am very humbled and honored to be here.
When the Hermanas asked me if I would be the keynote speaker tonight, I was thrilled. I didn’t hesitate for a moment at this opportunity, the opportunity to address the future leaders and difference makers of our world. The opportunity to address students, professionals and colleagues who come from a multitude of cultural backgrounds that need to hear, and know, that we are all we got.
Before I proceed, I want to take a moment to recognize all of you in attendance, all of you who are achieving the dream. You are often what I state amongst colleagues, students and peers, Viviendo El Sueno, Living the Dream! Before I continue please give your self a round of applause!
So who am I, and why am I here?
Well as you previously heard, my name is Anibal Soler, I am currently an Academy Director/ Vice-Principal at Charlotte High School in the Rochester City School District. I am 100% Puerto Rican and very proud of my culture, as I am sure many of you are. I have grown up and lived the majority of my life here in the city of Rochester. I attended city schools up until my junior year of high school, when my parents had finally gained the means to own their own home and we moved to the suburbs.
After graduating high school I attended Daemen College in Amherst, NY on a basketball scholarship. Yeah, us Latino’s can play ball too. During my time at Daemen College, I became an Hermano of La Unidad Latina, Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc. After becoming an Hermano and obtaining my undergraduate degree in teaching, I came back home to Rochester yet again. I worked full time as an Art teacher at what was called at that time, Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Since graduating from Daemen College I have since obtained two master’s degrees, one from Nazareth College in educational technology and another from St. John Fisher College in educational administration. Currently, I am working on my doctorate at the University of Rochester in educational leadership.
I am sure many of you are sitting here and thinking, boy, that is a lot of school loans! Well you’re right, but well worth the ultimate goal, and we all know that knowledge is power.
Well, that’s enough about me, and let’s to get to why I am here. I need you to take a moment to focus and critically consider the message I am going to deliver tonight. In my line of work, the country is in a state of crisis, some have called it a “silent epidemic.” As I have previously stated I am a high school Vice-Principal in the City of Rochester. I work in one of the five largest school districts in New York. I work in a school district that has approximately a 90% poverty rate. Many of my students come from homes and life experiences very similar to what many of you and I have encountered, except with them, I am losing more then I am gaining. I want you to understand that what the future holds is very critical for us, us as Latinos and us as a country.
Just last week ABC news reported that as a country, we have a national high school drop out rate of 50%. Ladies and gentlemen, that is 1.2 Million students dropping out a year. In Los Angeles the dropout rate is 45%, in Baltimore 34%, Miami 49%, and home to many of you, New York City, 47%. In Detroit 1 out of 4, 9th graders that entered school this year, will graduate. That is 25% graduation rate! People, this has got to change!
Out of all the minorities not graduating, Latino’s are the highest. Latino’s are dropping out of high schools at an even alarming rate and are as much as 75% of the dropouts in America. Here in Rochester we have approximately 10,000 high school students, and if things don’t change here and they continue to follow the current path, we will only graduate 40 percent of those students, that is 4,000 out of 10,000 high school students will be graduating. The majority of those not graduating in my school district are Latino’s. Latino’s in my school district are the highest of any minority group not making it out of high school. Again, the problem is real, and this has got to change!
According to the America’s Promise Alliance, every 26 seconds, one high school student drops out. Based off this statistic alone, by the time I get done speaking to you tonight, we will lose approximately 50 high school students.
In September of 2007, CNN reported that more Blacks and Latinos live in jail cells that in college dorms. The numbers are staggering. More then three times as many African-American people live in prison cells than in college dorms. The numbers don’t get any better for Latinos as there are 2.7 Latino inmates for every Latino living in college housing. The majority of these inmates are also males.
This information also reflects the majority of the students dropping out of high school and not graduating. The bulk of them are also African-American and Latino. They live in poor unfunded inner-cities. They come from homes and environments where they have little to no social support. They come from broken homes that have a single parent or grandparent raising them. The conversations about the value and importance of education are far and few in between in their lives.
For me, as I am sure was the case for many of you, college always felt like an option but only because my mother, and my grandparents made it that way. They were my advocates. As the most educated person in my family, I feel a sense of pride but also a great appreciation. My mother never let me believe that the color of my skin or the amount of money we had would define my future. Instead, I got unfailing support. Now today, I am before students who are going through the same process and our coming from similar backgrounds. By showing and being the example for students that college is accessible, we can set an example for our future leaders. We all know that education is the foundation and the critical component for our success.
The time has changed, and today’s inner-city students need more support then ever, they need advocates and mentors in their lives.
Last year with the help of one of my Hermanos, I orchestrated the first ever free out of town overnight college trip for ten of my senior students at my high school. Ten students who knew the importance of college, but never had the opportunity to experience what it’s like. Ten students, who had never left their neighborhood, were suddenly exposed to a whole new world of possibility. Last June all ten students graduated high school and 8 out of the 10 enrolled in a college for the upcoming next year. This is just one example of what can be done.
I know this sounds crazy, but just today, I had another example of the power and benefit of mentoring. A true example of what can occur if we all get involved in the life a youth. I have been working with a young lady for this past school year. She comes from a broken home and has had many personal struggles throughout her life. She shows up to school every day with a smile and she makes sure that her academics are in place. She also works twenty plus hours at Wegmans, to help make ends meet in her household. Today at around noon I took this young lady for an interview at the St. John Fisher College HEOP Office. An hour later she was accepted, and as she turned to hug me outside of the office, she said, “Mr. Soler, I did it I am the first in my family to go to college, thank you!” After that precious moment I walked her over to the bookstore to buy her, her first college t-shirt. Again, this is another example of why we must all be involved. Before I continue I want to thank Victoria McEachin for helping me out. Thank you Vicki!
You are probably sitting there thinking what can I do to help? Well you have taken the first step. You have come and supported this organization through the purchase of your ticket. You have given a monetary donation that will be used by SLU to help impact the life of a young lady.
SLU’s Ladies program is another example of doing what it takes to make a difference in the life of our youth. Their program has helped each participant gain college level skills, develop professionally, and most importantly learn about their culture. Since its inception in 2001, the program has helped touch the lives of young women. It is helped them realize that college is not inaccessible dream but a reality that they can achieve. Some of the participants are now enrolled at various colleges throughout New York State.
Before I leave you, tonight I want you to remember that your life will be measured not by how long you lived, but by what you have done during that time for others. So please make time to give to organizations such as SLU and their Lady’s Program. If you cannot give financially then please give with your time, heart and dedication to doing what is our civic responsibility, taking care of others. Make sure you go back to your college dorms, your work place and think how you may make a difference in the life of someone younger and less fortunate then yourself. Make sure you become an advocate for those students who are just like you were in high school. Again, this problem is real, and it is all of our responsibility to help.
As one of my all time favorite pieces of writing by Michael Josephson states, “Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident. It’s not a matter of circumstance but of choice. Choose to live a life that matters!”
Finally, please help our youth, “Live the Dream!”
Thank you!
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Living the Dream: Technology in Urban Schools
Lately, I have been thinking about what most students, teachers and administrators can expect in terms of technology in big box urban schools. I am sure there are other items, but here is what I have come up with so far...
You can expect that most classrooms in urban schools will have one computer that is usually dedicated for teacher use. You can expect that the teacher will only use the one workstation for work related activities such as attendance, communication, and grade keeping. These low level activities also include email and using Microsoft Office products scarcely. The highest activity occurring on teacher workstations, is internet browsing for personal interest.
You could expect that urban schools only have a handful of LCD projectors and the teachers who use them the most often use them for video playing and only pull them out once in a while. Often times you find the overhead projector getting more use then an LCD projector.
You could also expect to find a few to zero laptops dedicated for student use. You could expect to find very few if at all any color printers. SmartBoards or Interactive Boards are rare and few in between. Most are located in classrooms that has teachers who are very comfortable with technology. You also find them in rooms that the teacher may have no familiarity with the technology, but has indicated an interest in learning how to use it. The follow through and training is rarely present to help that teacher.
Printers, are also far in and few in schools. Often printers are located scarcely throughout a building with not enough of them being centrally located. Copiers are also very scarce often urban schools with 70 plus teaching staff members have no more then two available to them, and many times only have one. Copiers are often not found setup for network printing so teachers, students and administrators could rarely use them remotely throughout the school building.
Digital cameras, camcorders are scarce and very often non-existent for teacher and student use.
Computer labs are strictly dedicated for a content area and very few buildings have space for open use labs. Mobile laptop carts would alleviate this scarcity.
So what's my point, well if we are to improve urban education we need to provide access to current resources and tools. We need to provide teachers and administrators with exposure and training on using such tools to improve the overall educational experience for students in urban schools. There is a huge disparity of exposure from schools from state to state as well as within the same city. If we are to allow students of color an opportunity to succeed in the 21st Century then we must incorporate the use of technology in everything we do. The longer we wait the bigger the gap, and the further minorities will be at being able to access the digital jobs that now exist.
The time is now to integrate cutting edge technology. Let us not do it for a grant, or as a partnership with another organization but let us do it because it is the right thing to invest in.
------
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Living the Dream: We Are All We Got!!!
The city and suburban residents of Rochester, have to realize one thing, "We are all we got!!" It is not good enough for us to turn away from the problems plaguing the city. We cannot allow for the economic breakdown of class to be reflective of our city and our priorities.
We have to be comfortable enough to speak out when we see wrong. We ALL have a civic responsibility to each other as humans in this world. We must not be afraid to advocate for those in need. We must not be afraid to speak out for inequities that occur in the school system. We must not be afraid to challenge one another to do what is right for our children, students and the world. If we see crimes committed, we have to speak out against them or eventually they will consume and dictate how we live our lives.
Students, educators, school leaders, politicians must remember one thing,...
WE ARE ALL WE GOT!!!
------
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
We have to be comfortable enough to speak out when we see wrong. We ALL have a civic responsibility to each other as humans in this world. We must not be afraid to advocate for those in need. We must not be afraid to speak out for inequities that occur in the school system. We must not be afraid to challenge one another to do what is right for our children, students and the world. If we see crimes committed, we have to speak out against them or eventually they will consume and dictate how we live our lives.
Students, educators, school leaders, politicians must remember one thing,...
WE ARE ALL WE GOT!!!
------
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Brown vs. Board of Education, A Constant Influence on Educational Practice and Priorities, Then, Now and Forever
The U.S. Supreme Court case Brown vs. Board of Education, has been called the turning point in the promotion of educational equality for all students in the United States. “The Brown decision stripped legitimacy from racial segregation in American public education and set in motion the quest to ensure millions of black schoolchildren equal educational opportunity” (Edelman, 1973, p. 33). This case also placed a national focus on providing equal opportunities of success for all nationalities in America in particular African Americans. “The actions of African Americans contributed to the militancy of other groups in demanding equality of educational opportunity and recognition of their cultures in public schools” (Spring, 2007, p. 113). Latino’s and other minority groups have also gained attention to their disparities because of this case. Brown has been and still is criticized and credited for various results in education.
In theory, it allowed students of color to attend schools that were off limits to them, it eradicated segregation legally, but in the current make-up of urban schools, there seems to be a relapse. Since the Supreme Court ruling African Americans and Latino students have never been at the top of the achievement gap. They have always been held in comparison to the White Anglo Saxon population, and been viewed as deficient. If the verdict was truly put into practice, it would allow students who are tied into certain school districts due to the socio-economic status of their family an opportunity to go to any school of their choice, that they deemed appropriate for their success.
The major benefit of the law was that it helps bring national attention to a discriminatory practice of funding. It forced those Whites in power to change some of their practices in order to help alleviate a growing national tension. There answer was desegregation, not the initial intentions of Brown, but the result of it.
Given that desegregation was the policy or tool of choice from the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court, it in turn caused major unintended corollaries for various stakeholders of color.
For example teachers of color, exclusively African American teachers loss their jobs as schools were segregated and many White school officials and parents did not want their children to be taught by them. African American educators would often receive letters stating that because of this ruling and the federal mandate that they would have to lose their jobs. School districts placed blame to the ruling in their letters to black teachers, and made it seem that it was the primary reason for losing their job. These teachers were forced to enter other careers and leave a profession that many of them loved and flourished in. Teachers of black students were advocates. Many of them lived in their communities, attended church with them and were viewed by many as pivotal in the success of black students in a desegregated world (Tillman, 2004). Since 1954, we have not recovered from the dismissal of a large African American teaching and administrative workforce.
Abysmal school facilities are another unintended result of Brown. Students in urban educational settings have school buildings that still in theory are segregated by the majority of the students that attend those schools. Most students of color have been forced to live where housing is affordable and the schools are old and worn down. Facilities that often include poor heating, plumbing, roofing problems, unsanitary bathrooms, non-functioning water fountains, characteristics of “ghetto-schools” that were highly attended by Latino and African American students (Lopez, 2002).
Another unintended consequence or benefit of Brown vs. Board, was the creation of Bilingual education. Bilingual education programs are an example of efforts rooted in the principles in Brown. If not for Brown, many Latino children would not have been afforded the right to succeed by being educated in their primary language along with English. This has since gone under some reforms by those who feel that an “English only” education is the right choice.
Parents, in particular African American parents were also affected by the decision of Brown vs. Board. Minority parents were faced with having to send their child to a school, where they would be the minority and may face prosecution by the majority White students. It was not uncommon for students of color to be beaten, abused physically and verbally and humiliated when going to majority white schools.
The Brown case also indirectly did not investigate the role that race plays in our lives as a society. It failed to realize that although desegregating schools was in theory the correct thing to do, it force many individuals to lose their cultural identity and become assimilated to the dominant culture. It also allowed those with the financial resources to get up and leave.
“White Flight” was also an unintended result of Brown. Rather then stay and be forced to learn how to live with other cultures, many Whites migrated to further suburban neighborhoods so that their children would not have to be educated along side minority students. This created new divisive lines between community groups and races that were based on economic resources.
It has been 54 years since the historic decision and there are still many inequities that have yet to be resolved with “deliberate speed.” The issues of equity range from facilities, curriculum, resources, cultural appreciation and recognition, leadership, opportunities, faculty and student expectations.
Urban school facilities have faced and seen a lot of neglect and in very few cases do those same districts have any new school buildings. Most of the educational facilities in urban schools are either buildings that have been around approximately a 100 years, and have been patched up yearly just to get through.
Curriculum has never reflected the cultural interests of students after the Brown vs. Board of Education decision. When schools were segregated they were taught by teachers of color who in term would automatically include culturally significant materials and intertwine it with items they felt would be necessary for students of color to succeed in a “white world.”
Today’s curriculum still lacks major representation for students of color, there are only superficial mentions of historic African-Americans that are embedded in Social Studies textbooks. In terms of Latino’s the mentioning of the Spanish American War and immigration are two of the main topics that only hint about history and role of Latinos in America. Latino’s have very little of any mention of historic political figures and their trials in tribulations through out U.S. History.
The major error with curriculum today, is that it continues to promote the Americanization of students of color. The curriculum rarely if ever speaks from the angle of those oppressed, or most negatively influenced by the majority White American government. Native Americans, African-Americans, Asian Americans, and Latino Americans are all viewed in the curriculum as having gained so much more by the influence of the majority White Anglo Saxon America. Influences such as having been taught English the language of power, and having been shown religious and culturally valued norms, that are viewed as the right and acceptable practice amongst the masses. Curriculum today also continues to be written by those individuals in power, who continue to culturally reflect only a small percentage of the students being influenced by the curriculum.
Brown vs. Board of Education main premise was to fight for the end to legalized racial school segregation and separate but equal opportunities for students of color, in particular in terms of resources. The lack of resources and educational opportunities for school districts that serve a majority of students of color are startling. Today, in urban inner city schools the adequate availability of items such as school field trips, computer technology, assistive technology, student internships, textbooks, athletic equipment is far and few in between. There is a huge disparity between suburban schools that serve a majority of Caucasian students and city schools that serve a majority of minority students, very much, like what existed in 1954.
Since the historic ruling of Brown vs. Board, our national landscape has grown and diversified exponentially. We have a wide variety of minority groups who we now have to be mindful and sensitive to in terms of providing a rewarding adequate and equal educational experience.
Our country now includes the following groups, Arab Americans, Indian Americans, Hispanic/Latino-Americans, African Americans, Afro-Caribbean Americans, Asian Americans, Caucasian Americans and various combinations of the before mentioned groups. We also have a melting pot of religions and cultural influences that have been recognized in the media and through business. We have to create schools that promote diversity, where all children regardless of race and background can see the benefit of coming together, to learn and become part of a global world.
This generation of leaders needs to revisit how schools function, how they are organized, what and how they teach, and how they involve the community. Education though, still has a long way to go in improving the deficiencies that were fought for fifty-four years ago. With the emergence of various cultural groups and the huge disparities they possess financially, the work of “separate but equal” is far from finished.
----
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
In theory, it allowed students of color to attend schools that were off limits to them, it eradicated segregation legally, but in the current make-up of urban schools, there seems to be a relapse. Since the Supreme Court ruling African Americans and Latino students have never been at the top of the achievement gap. They have always been held in comparison to the White Anglo Saxon population, and been viewed as deficient. If the verdict was truly put into practice, it would allow students who are tied into certain school districts due to the socio-economic status of their family an opportunity to go to any school of their choice, that they deemed appropriate for their success.
The major benefit of the law was that it helps bring national attention to a discriminatory practice of funding. It forced those Whites in power to change some of their practices in order to help alleviate a growing national tension. There answer was desegregation, not the initial intentions of Brown, but the result of it.
Given that desegregation was the policy or tool of choice from the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court, it in turn caused major unintended corollaries for various stakeholders of color.
For example teachers of color, exclusively African American teachers loss their jobs as schools were segregated and many White school officials and parents did not want their children to be taught by them. African American educators would often receive letters stating that because of this ruling and the federal mandate that they would have to lose their jobs. School districts placed blame to the ruling in their letters to black teachers, and made it seem that it was the primary reason for losing their job. These teachers were forced to enter other careers and leave a profession that many of them loved and flourished in. Teachers of black students were advocates. Many of them lived in their communities, attended church with them and were viewed by many as pivotal in the success of black students in a desegregated world (Tillman, 2004). Since 1954, we have not recovered from the dismissal of a large African American teaching and administrative workforce.
Abysmal school facilities are another unintended result of Brown. Students in urban educational settings have school buildings that still in theory are segregated by the majority of the students that attend those schools. Most students of color have been forced to live where housing is affordable and the schools are old and worn down. Facilities that often include poor heating, plumbing, roofing problems, unsanitary bathrooms, non-functioning water fountains, characteristics of “ghetto-schools” that were highly attended by Latino and African American students (Lopez, 2002).
Another unintended consequence or benefit of Brown vs. Board, was the creation of Bilingual education. Bilingual education programs are an example of efforts rooted in the principles in Brown. If not for Brown, many Latino children would not have been afforded the right to succeed by being educated in their primary language along with English. This has since gone under some reforms by those who feel that an “English only” education is the right choice.
Parents, in particular African American parents were also affected by the decision of Brown vs. Board. Minority parents were faced with having to send their child to a school, where they would be the minority and may face prosecution by the majority White students. It was not uncommon for students of color to be beaten, abused physically and verbally and humiliated when going to majority white schools.
The Brown case also indirectly did not investigate the role that race plays in our lives as a society. It failed to realize that although desegregating schools was in theory the correct thing to do, it force many individuals to lose their cultural identity and become assimilated to the dominant culture. It also allowed those with the financial resources to get up and leave.
“White Flight” was also an unintended result of Brown. Rather then stay and be forced to learn how to live with other cultures, many Whites migrated to further suburban neighborhoods so that their children would not have to be educated along side minority students. This created new divisive lines between community groups and races that were based on economic resources.
It has been 54 years since the historic decision and there are still many inequities that have yet to be resolved with “deliberate speed.” The issues of equity range from facilities, curriculum, resources, cultural appreciation and recognition, leadership, opportunities, faculty and student expectations.
Urban school facilities have faced and seen a lot of neglect and in very few cases do those same districts have any new school buildings. Most of the educational facilities in urban schools are either buildings that have been around approximately a 100 years, and have been patched up yearly just to get through.
Curriculum has never reflected the cultural interests of students after the Brown vs. Board of Education decision. When schools were segregated they were taught by teachers of color who in term would automatically include culturally significant materials and intertwine it with items they felt would be necessary for students of color to succeed in a “white world.”
Today’s curriculum still lacks major representation for students of color, there are only superficial mentions of historic African-Americans that are embedded in Social Studies textbooks. In terms of Latino’s the mentioning of the Spanish American War and immigration are two of the main topics that only hint about history and role of Latinos in America. Latino’s have very little of any mention of historic political figures and their trials in tribulations through out U.S. History.
The major error with curriculum today, is that it continues to promote the Americanization of students of color. The curriculum rarely if ever speaks from the angle of those oppressed, or most negatively influenced by the majority White American government. Native Americans, African-Americans, Asian Americans, and Latino Americans are all viewed in the curriculum as having gained so much more by the influence of the majority White Anglo Saxon America. Influences such as having been taught English the language of power, and having been shown religious and culturally valued norms, that are viewed as the right and acceptable practice amongst the masses. Curriculum today also continues to be written by those individuals in power, who continue to culturally reflect only a small percentage of the students being influenced by the curriculum.
Brown vs. Board of Education main premise was to fight for the end to legalized racial school segregation and separate but equal opportunities for students of color, in particular in terms of resources. The lack of resources and educational opportunities for school districts that serve a majority of students of color are startling. Today, in urban inner city schools the adequate availability of items such as school field trips, computer technology, assistive technology, student internships, textbooks, athletic equipment is far and few in between. There is a huge disparity between suburban schools that serve a majority of Caucasian students and city schools that serve a majority of minority students, very much, like what existed in 1954.
Since the historic ruling of Brown vs. Board, our national landscape has grown and diversified exponentially. We have a wide variety of minority groups who we now have to be mindful and sensitive to in terms of providing a rewarding adequate and equal educational experience.
Our country now includes the following groups, Arab Americans, Indian Americans, Hispanic/Latino-Americans, African Americans, Afro-Caribbean Americans, Asian Americans, Caucasian Americans and various combinations of the before mentioned groups. We also have a melting pot of religions and cultural influences that have been recognized in the media and through business. We have to create schools that promote diversity, where all children regardless of race and background can see the benefit of coming together, to learn and become part of a global world.
This generation of leaders needs to revisit how schools function, how they are organized, what and how they teach, and how they involve the community. Education though, still has a long way to go in improving the deficiencies that were fought for fifty-four years ago. With the emergence of various cultural groups and the huge disparities they possess financially, the work of “separate but equal” is far from finished.
----
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Friday, March 14, 2008
Loss of Two Students
It has been almost a month since we lost two students to street violence at Charlotte High School, Both students were freshman and their lost was deeply felt by everyone in the building. Read more about what occured here on the Democrat & Chronicle .
The first couple of days back were a little rough with students asking questions of why, and having difficulty dealing with the lost of someone whom they had known.
Looking back, our students were great, they were very open to healthy dialogue on about their emotions and thoughts. They also used various venues to release there emotions such as creating cards, signing the students lockers and leaving messages on the poster hanging in the cafeteria. Many of the students also attended the funeral services of both students.
Still to this date there is no information on who committed this crime and why. A lot of what we have heard is just speculation. Some of the dialogue I had with students in classes was about the importance of reporting whatever they may know. I was mainly trying to address the issue of "snitching." One of the main areas of concerns in school and in urban environments.
One particular dialogue sticks out in my mind. I asked the students why don't students "snitch" or report crimes? The one student who raised her hand first, turned and looked at me and said, "Mr. Soler, we know what's right and what's wrong, but you gotta understand that we live in those neighborhoods and if we tell someone, that person we told doesn't necessarily go back to that neighborhood but we do."
Those comments really pointed to the immense presence of fear that exist in inner-city communities. She was 100% right many of us involved with students in urban schools do not live in the same neighborhoods. I found myself stuck and I didn't really know how to respond to her, other then saying you must use schools and education as the way out to better yourself, and family.
I ended my visit by saying, "All we have is each other!"
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Living the Dream: Back 2 Back Section V Champs!
Congratulations to the Charlotte High School Boys Varsity Basketball Team! They have accomplished what most student-athletes never get to experience once in their careers, they won back-to-back Section Five Championships.
This team of boys have been together since middle school and their hard work, determination and commitment has paid off. They have help rebuild and make Charlotte High School a powerhouse in boys basketball.
I wish all the Seniors on the team, good luck and we will be looking forward to their college careers.
--
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Jordan Major-Scholar Athlete
This week brought some great news to Charlotte High School and in particularly myself. Last year in my first year at Charlotte High School I made a connection with a student, Jordan Major. At the time Jordan was a Junior and I seen an enormous amount of potential in him athletically as well as academically. Since that time I have become his unofficial mentor and advocate.
In two years worth of time I have taken Jordan to various venues, including college visitation trips and AAU basketball tournaments. I have also helped him out financially when things were tough.
Jordan, is evidence that making connections and mentoring students pays off! As a result of his hard work he was chosen as the scholar athlete for Channel 10 news in Rochester. Check it out the news article here.
Congratulations Jordan, I am proud of you!
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
In two years worth of time I have taken Jordan to various venues, including college visitation trips and AAU basketball tournaments. I have also helped him out financially when things were tough.
Jordan, is evidence that making connections and mentoring students pays off! As a result of his hard work he was chosen as the scholar athlete for Channel 10 news in Rochester. Check it out the news article here.
Congratulations Jordan, I am proud of you!
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Their words...
Recently on the Rochester City School District, 7th Grade English Language Arts, city wide midterm, the students where asked to write an essay on suggestions what they believe would help them be more successful students and prevent them from dropping out of school.
Here were eight of the most consistent items mentioned. The order of these items has no significance, as all of the items have equal value.
• On the first day of school the principal should introduce him or herself to all of the 7th graders
• Teacher and Administrators should bond with students
• Older students should be assigned as mentors to 7th graders
• Test should be referred to as a celebration of learning
• Students should be grouped in classes according to their ability or level
• Teachers and Administrators should assure students that they are not being given up on, even if this means going to their house and talking to their parents
• Have 8th grade students talk to 7th grade students at the beginning of the year and give them advice on how to be successful as 7th graders
• Try to work with kids instead of just kicking them out of the classroom right away
After reading what the students wrote, I thought to myself, is the district going to look at this information? And if they do are they going to use it? Is this question only on the exam to foster stronger student participation, because students will feel that their voices are going to be heard?
Not sure what, and if the district will use this information, but I know I have come away with some valuable insight that I plan to use to help build a stronger community next year.
Thanks 7th Graders, Class of 2012!
¡Viviendo el Sueño!
(Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Here were eight of the most consistent items mentioned. The order of these items has no significance, as all of the items have equal value.
• On the first day of school the principal should introduce him or herself to all of the 7th graders
• Teacher and Administrators should bond with students
• Older students should be assigned as mentors to 7th graders
• Test should be referred to as a celebration of learning
• Students should be grouped in classes according to their ability or level
• Teachers and Administrators should assure students that they are not being given up on, even if this means going to their house and talking to their parents
• Have 8th grade students talk to 7th grade students at the beginning of the year and give them advice on how to be successful as 7th graders
• Try to work with kids instead of just kicking them out of the classroom right away
After reading what the students wrote, I thought to myself, is the district going to look at this information? And if they do are they going to use it? Is this question only on the exam to foster stronger student participation, because students will feel that their voices are going to be heard?
Not sure what, and if the district will use this information, but I know I have come away with some valuable insight that I plan to use to help build a stronger community next year.
Thanks 7th Graders, Class of 2012!
¡Viviendo el Sueño!
(Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Identity
Through out my time as an educator and school administrator, I have often thought about the concept of identity. I think about how this act of self-actualization plays a role in the educational experience of my urban students.
It is often stated that minority students struggle through out school, especially secondary school, because they see no relevance in curriculum and education. They have no connection on why education is important and how they should be using the school experience to open other doors. Is this their fault or ours? I believe it to be our fault and responsibility.
This framework causes me to think about identity and its role in school. When students know who they are, they can begin to fulfill their potential and become viable and productive scholars, but yet schools don't spend anytime on this. Why don’t schools change some of their focus?
Why don't we teach students about their cultural backgrounds to help build their identity and role in the world? Why don't we create academic avenues where students can engage in self-identifying activities? I left high school unsure about what I wanted to become or who I was because my experiences where limited and non-relevant. This lack of practice still continues today.
I highly recommend that educators and school leaders start to change their focus on creating instructional programs that help students see themselves better through work, and through educational experiences. I think it is a huge reason why students struggle with being successful in school. Students see no to little relevance in school and curriculum. They also see little of their identity developing at school.
Let's take the time to focus more on the student and less on the mandated content. I think when you do this you will see the benefits beyond measure.
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
It is often stated that minority students struggle through out school, especially secondary school, because they see no relevance in curriculum and education. They have no connection on why education is important and how they should be using the school experience to open other doors. Is this their fault or ours? I believe it to be our fault and responsibility.
This framework causes me to think about identity and its role in school. When students know who they are, they can begin to fulfill their potential and become viable and productive scholars, but yet schools don't spend anytime on this. Why don’t schools change some of their focus?
Why don't we teach students about their cultural backgrounds to help build their identity and role in the world? Why don't we create academic avenues where students can engage in self-identifying activities? I left high school unsure about what I wanted to become or who I was because my experiences where limited and non-relevant. This lack of practice still continues today.
I highly recommend that educators and school leaders start to change their focus on creating instructional programs that help students see themselves better through work, and through educational experiences. I think it is a huge reason why students struggle with being successful in school. Students see no to little relevance in school and curriculum. They also see little of their identity developing at school.
Let's take the time to focus more on the student and less on the mandated content. I think when you do this you will see the benefits beyond measure.
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Monday, January 21, 2008
I have a Dream!
Today is a day that many individuals have off from work and school. Today is a day that has been declared a national holiday by our government. Today is a day when many individuals especially African-American and Latino students still have no real context to what had occurred just 40 years ago. The results of Dr. King's work is very evident in the lives of all minorities today. As a Latino I know that I have benefited from his work.
Dr. King had a vision and belief that our world would be much better as soon as we started to treat everyone equal and see individuals for their character and not for their color of skin. How correct he was indeed!
Sadly, although a lot has changed a lot has remained the same. We still have huge racial inequities that exist in our culture. Inequities, that those who are not of color would never experience and may even argue do not exist because they have no true experience with them in their lives.
In my eyes, the greatest of these inequities exist in the public school system, where schools are still divided by racial lines. Where schools that are located in inner-cities do not have the same resources as their suburban counterparts. Where the student population is reflective to that of the era of segregation.
My point is that while Dr. Martin Luther King had a dream the work is still not finished. We must all step forward and pay it forward to the next generation. We must educate our youth today and tell them of the great leaders in the past who have paved the way for their future. A future filled with opportunity and choices that may have not been here if it wasn't for the great work of Dr. King.
Today's students must have a grasp of their cultural roots in order to aspire for great things. Urban schools must focus their energy on reaching the hundreds and thousands of African-American and Latino students that we lose every year. We all must do our part in the struggle and help show cultural relevance in curriculum and its connection to life.
Gone but not forgotten!
1/15/1929-4/4/1968
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
New Year, New Promises and Renewed Efforts
Happy New Year!
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Another year has come to a close and it's now time to sit down and think about what you are going to do different, or better this new year.
I begin to think about all the items that still need to be done in education to help better meet the needs of my students. I think about my new personal adventure as a father in 2008. I think about my continuing academic journey in my Doctoral program, at the University of Rochester.
Before I continue looking forward let me just say that this year was another great year for myself. I have had numerous amounts and opportunities to help students at my school. I have been privileged enough to make connections with other professionals in education who have the same passion and desire to create better opportunities for students as I do. My wife and I also had the honor and privilege of receiving my son, Avery into this world. So in retrospect it was a great 2007.
So what is in store for 2008? I am not sure but I do know that whatever it is I will make the most and best of any situation that may come my way. Now this leads me to my resolutions for the 2008 new year.
Here is a quick list of my manageable and realistic resolutions:
- Be the best father I can be and do all the things that were never done for me by my father
- Continue to do well in my doctoral coursework and ultimately get closer to completion
- Continue to become a better school administrator, and continue to reflect and make changes where possible
- Create new opportunities for my students, to help achieve their dreams in and out of school
- Tell those in my family and circle of trust, that I love them as often as possible, and always remember that family comes first
Have a great New Years Day!
¡Viviendo el Sueño! (Living the Dream!)
Mr. Anibal Soler, Jr.
http://www.anibalsoler.com
http://anibalsoler.blogspot.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)