tyfroth

On Children Leaving Home

As I’ve been watching friends and family members send off their college age children, I thought I’d share some of the accrued wisdom we shared with our children as they left home for the first prolonged period of time.

America is a Noun

“I’m not sure with whom I was more disappointed: right wingers for co-opting the colors and the notion of American pride or left-leaning folks like me for allowing it to happen.”

Bob’s Life Mattered

“Occasionally, I hear folks complain about BLM. They typically make some kind of blanket declaration of the obvious, like “All Lives Matter,” as if to suggest they, as white people, are in similar need of societal validation. I find such glomming onto African-Americans’ justifiable claim to be petty and to miss the point entirely.”

Thank You, John B.

“Not long ago I unexpectedly came across the obituary for John B., and I have not been able to get him or the effect he had on my life out of my head ever since.”

Rolling in American Dirt

“I overcame my hesitance to read American Dirt,” and I am glad I did.”

Who are You Calling a Patriot?

“Patriotism does not possess a one size fits all definition.”

Be a Man. Be a Feminist.

I’d like to thank Rep. Ted Yoho (FL), whose recent display of boorishness reminded me of why every school year I proudly proclaim my feminist status to my students. As a male and former football coach, I typically receive many surprised and sidelong looks but also a few appreciative smirks. Regardless of your politics, Yoho’sContinue reading “Be a Man. Be a Feminist.”

Acceptable Loss?

As a high school teacher, I would wholeheartedly return to the classroom on the directive of my superintendent if the return is to be done in full compliance with CDC guidelines. Should, for example, the six-foot distancing be reduced or masks not be required of all, my enthusiasm for a return to normal wanes dramatically.Continue reading “Acceptable Loss?”

“The Angel Gabriel (Gonti) was Sent.” To Ohio?

As a teacher, whenever I hear that there will be an exchange student in one of my courses, I greet the news with ambivalence. Most often, the student is a joy to have in class and eager to learn and to share their own culture with me and their classmates. Occasionally, however, the exchange studentContinue reading ““The Angel Gabriel (Gonti) was Sent.” To Ohio?”

Followership

New Blog Post: “Followership.”