Rays of Hope

"You trick 'em into thinking they aren't learning, and they do."

Prez Pryzbylewski' (The Wire)

For all the hopelessness that is depicted on the Wire and many of us see in real life its important to see the other reality. That there are unsung hero's out there that care

Watching some of his students cards in his classroom during lunch Roland "Prez" Pryzbylewski's watches his students play poker for peanut shells He decides to use their card game as a math exercise, and gives them tips on figuring out their odds. They ask if he can do the same with dice and he agrees. Playing dice with monopoly money. Duquan "Dukie" Weems is working at the new computer, smiling even, as Randy, returning to class from suspension, catches up on what he missed. When Grace Sampson appears in the doorway to observe the games, Prez explains: "You trick 'em into thinking they aren't learning, and they do."

Wire interview

Throughout its 13 episodes, "The Wire" raises a fundamental question: Which education is most relevant to the lives of middle school kids? That received in the schools or on the streets? read the entire ABC article here



HBO's Angel Rodriguez explores the complicated relationship between Nicole, a white, well-educated counselor, and Angel, a bright but troubled teenager she is trying to help.

Angel's problems might not seem to be overwhelming; he's not mentally unstable, abusing drugs, or in trouble with the law. He's a kid who acts out by stealing, lying, fighting with his father, and undermining most of the opportunities he's given.

In a different context, his behavior might be understood as an adolescent phase of confusion and rebellion. But Angel's situation is less forgiving - his conduct has led to his father, who now lives with a girlfriend Angel despises, throwing his son out of the house. to read more and get times click


Powerful Backbones
Eough is not said about the grand parents, many no longer have the luxury of just lavishing their grand children with gifts and affection when they choose, many are struggling and raising another generation of children
Two website dedicated to thier issues provide help.

On blackgrandparents.com there's a real smart article on kids the internet and how grands must become internet savy.
Time spent, admonishing your child to get off the computer will never work. Rather, parents must concern themselves with promoting or requiring alternative activities such as homework, athletics, hobbies, volunteer activity, part-time work, religious instruction, etc. The strategy is to engage them in other wholesome activities that compete for their time. Then when they want to chat, they’ll have earned it… and have much to talk about!
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Australians grand parents address the same issues at (GAGS) grand parents and Grand Children Society more

Youth Librians our last line of defense

They address homework needs and are constantly trying to find ways to encourage students to read. What they may not have in the ways of school (or even adult dept budgets) they make up with sheer creativity and innovation. They knew about Manga and graphic novels before they were even cool. If your child does not know their local YA librarian by name, then shame on you. Go to your library and introduce yourself, thank them then ask how you can help

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