Women’s History Month

year investigation, exposing the misappropriation of billions of taxpayer dollars, paint a picture of a broken system where bureaucracy reigns supreme and progress is impeded.

One might be tempted to brush off the zero-math proficiency statistic as mere cherry-picking, but the grim reality of Baltimore’s educational crisis is inescapable. Figures additionally reveal that a staggering 41% of all students in Baltimore City high schools have a grade point average of less than 1.0, equating to failing grades in almost every single class—with maybe lunch period as their saving grace.

The dire state of reading levels in these schools is no less concerning, with 70% of students requiring remedial reading classes and 75% only possessing elementary school-level reading skills.

Making matters worse, the budget for Baltimore’s schools stands at a staggering $1.6 billion, or $21,606 per student, making it the fourthhighest in the nation, trailing only New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C. Despite this astronomical budget, however, the average reading scores in Baltimore are approximately half of those achieved in those three states, highlighting the stark disparity between investment and performance.

The disturbing truth is that our system is set up so those in positions of power can profit when students fail because it brings institutions more money. The imperative to invest in a system that prioritizes the academic growth and wellbeing of our youth, free from corruption and the influence of financial gain, cannot be overstated. It is our duty to build an educational system that values the development of our youth above all else, and that holds leaders accountable when they prioritize their own selfish interests.

The failure of the Baltimore City public school district to serve its students properly is a perfect example of precisely what is wrong with our current systems. The actions of the school administrators and elected leaders in Baltimore is a betrayal of the trust placed in those tasked with shaping the future of America. The findings of Project Baltimore’s multi-

It is imperative that we act with urgency and purpose to ensure that every child receives the education they deserve, and that our society does not suffer the catastrophic consequences of a generation of unprepared leaders, particularly in light of the high reading, math, and science proficiency levels of our adversary, China, which hover at around 94%.

After all, this past decade highlighted, for most, the notion that elected leaders must be educated. The idea that a sitting president could not read or perform basic math functions would be unthinkable, yet the stark reality is that many children in entire major cities, such as Baltimore, do not possess even the most basic qualifications to be taken seriously as effective leaders by today’s standards. The implications of such a systemic educational crisis at scale would be devastating for our nation, as future American leaders who lack these fundamental skills will be unable to effectively wield power and make informed decisions. It would send us backward, not forward.

The delicate balance of our society is constantly threatened by ignorance; if just one generation falls short, it will lead to a bleak future caused by a downward spiral of ignorance. To secure a brighter future for everyone, we must nurture the seeds of knowledge within our children, for they hold the key to unlocking the path to our collective destiny. That is why it is crucial that we recognize that investing in their education is not just a duty, but a sacred obligation to ensure the preservation of progress for generations to come. The future of our society depends on it—it depends on our kids. Kids’ lives matter.

Armstrong Williams (@ARightSide) is manager / sole owner of Howard Stirk Holdings I & II Broadcast Television Stations and the 2016 Multicultural Media Broadcast Owner of the year. www.armstrongwilliams.co | www.howardstirkholdings.com

March is Women’s History Month. I don’t know about anyone else who is reading this column, but this past Black History Month was a doozy. I felt like, in the words of my late grandmother, “People really showed their tails!” I’m hoping March will be filled with less nonsense and more focus on inclusivity and the myriad of ways women have been trailblazers in almost every facet of our lives. I often think about the link between February and Black History Month with March and Women’s History Month. I like to make a concerted effort to recognize the multitudes of Black women, past and present, who have changed my life and the world for the better. Making this list is so easy because I am blessed to be able to start with my mother, Gloria McCray Greer. My mother has been, and luckily for me continues to be, the embodiment of a trailblazer and innovator. I think of her humble beginnings in Florida, which instilled in me the foundation of hard work and a love of nature. I think of her still sewing on the sewing machine she received for her Sweet 16 to make everything from prom dresses to curtains to now making sanitary goods for girls on the continent of Africa, which has instilled in me a creative spirit and a desire to make things with my hands and share my creative talents with others. Most importantly, my mother is a connector and a friend. When I think of the power of women, I think of a collective. I think of deep bonds that withstand circumstance and time. I think of women coming together to lift one another up in the face of tremendous odds. I think of women sharing secrets, telling their stories, and living their truths, knowing they are surrounded by their sisters who will accept them and help serve as a foundation for them, through good times and bad. My mother has modeled the gift of friendship to me and my sister through the years and because of that, I have a collection of “aunties” who have served as an additional source of strength, guidance, mentorship, and love. As we learn more about the amazing women who have run for office or started businesses or helped their communities, let’s not forget to look closely at the amazing women who may be in our own homes…or cleaning our homes. I am so blessed to be surrounded by incredible Black women in my life and I know it is because that sense of pride and comfort with talented and caring women began in my home. Happy Women’s History Month. May you see the women in your life in the light they deserve.

Christina Greer, Ph.D., is an Associate professor at Fordham University, the author of “Black Ethnics: Race, Immigration, and the Pursuit of the American Dream”, and the co-host of the podcast FAQ-NYC and host of The Blackest Questions podcast at TheGrio.