The website Change Makers has a contest for anyone involved in education who wants to and thinks they have a way to increase empathy in education. The criteria can be found here.
Democrat and Chronicle Story
Although bullying is not a literacy related topic, it is a school related topic that can save our children's lives if intervening takes place. As I'm sure we all know, a local 14 year old boy committed suicide last week because he was being bullied for being gay. As a pre-service teacher I find this to be chilling. Students should not feel alone in dealing with these situations. Teachers are there to support students and ensure an atmosphere where they feel comfortable. We need to take more steps in ending bullying and saving lives. What ideas can we present that may succeed in doing so?
The above link describes another local story about bullying. This one hits home as I did part of my practicum in Oliver Middle School in Brockport.
This "article" was posted on MSN.com on March 10th and contains some contemporary (and not so contemporary) books that are on the banned list. Complete with book cover images and short descriptions!
MSN.com Banned Books
For a more extensive list, please visit the following link from the American Library Association:
ALA Banned/Challenged Booklist
