Rory's Blog

Tag: Education

  • The Case Against “Smart”

    What does “smart” mean, really? Within the context of formal education, it seems to indicate some variation on the phrase “good at school.” But when we break it down, does that mean you’re a good reader? A good writer? A Math whiz? A test-taking machine? Oxford’s etymology: “… related to the verb, the original sense…

  • What is Essential?

    The COVID-19 crisis has, in short order, reframed the way I view myself, my family, my community, my work, and my world. Although as of this writing no one in my family has been stricken with or died from the virus, several students and colleagues have lost family members. Several more will follow. I’ve reached…

  • What Cordell Taught Me About Diversity

    Diversity: 1. ethnic variety, as well as socioeconomic and gender variety, in a group, society, or institution. 2. A cliché term used in mission statements, tag lines, sales pitches, and school websites to show that an organization is more than just a bunch of people who look the same. On the first day of first grade at…