But all is not well in the social drama which involves the education of children of color, especially the Black Child. A number of teachers, both Black and White, are not challenging the myths and misperceptions attributed to Black culture and its children. Other teachers - those who adopt a mantle of neutrality - are not speaking on behalf of disparaged youth. No one disputes that many children, especially those from tough urban areas, come to school daily with a myriad of problems.
Each speaker offers a different perspective on why these problems exist. Eider teacher Madge Scott says the students are victims of too much permissiveness in their lives. On the other hand, elder Etta Joan Marks blames teachers who do not care as the primary source.
And what will be the price if we don't address the issues, concerns and problems that are emblazoned across the educational battlefront?
Teacher Edouard Plummet summarizes eloquently: "This is what I want to impart to young people. If you are a learned man, you are a dangerous man, but if you are an ignorant man, you are no threat at all. Not only will you be a slave to [W]hite people, but a slave to any type of voices that come along."
Michele Foster has sought to capture the voices of Black teachers who withstand blighted classrooms, mounds of administrative red-tape, uncooperative parents, and students who haven't learned to dream. Her interviews awaken the reader to their successes and disappointments, their fervor and frailties, and their visions and nightmares. Her book can serve as the educational guidepost for those who seek to transform and renew a system that, decades ago, lost its direction. Yet, our hope is sustained by the dignity, passion and commitment of Black teachers who care.
Dr. James Anderson is the dean of undergraduate studies at North Carolina State University.
COPYRIGHT 1997 Cox, Matthews & Associates© Copyright 2005 by DiverseEducation.com
