Support those striking

student population in its lessons.

New Jersey’s vision for education is holistic. It’s not just about academics; it’s about creating well-rounded individuals. The state’s funding model is a masterclass in fairness. Whether a school is in an affluent suburb or a challenging neighborhood, New Jersey ensures it has what it needs.

And while academic achievements are celebrated, the state understands that emotional well-being is equally crucial. Robust mental health programs are a staple in New Jersey schools.

In the digital age, any discourse on education is incomplete without mentioning technology. Washington has been a frontrunner in this domain. The state’s curriculum is future-ready, designed for the tech-savvy student. But what about the teachers? Washington ensures they’re not left behind. Comprehensive training programs ensure that educators aren’t just familiar with the latest tech but can use it to enhance their teaching.

The achievements of these states are commendable, but they’re more than just success stories. They’re a clarion call to other states. The message is clear: every child, no matter where they’re from, deserves the best. Emulating these trailblazers can bridge educational disparities, drive economic progress, and foster a more enlightened society.

It’s essential to understand that the impact of a robust education system goes beyond the confines of the classroom. States that prioritize education witness a ripple effect, touching various facets of society. For instance, there’s a direct correla- tion between quality education and reduced crime rates. When individuals are equipped with knowledge and skills, they are more likely to find gainful employment and less likely to engage in unlawful activities. Moreover, education fosters critical thinking, creating a populace that’s not just employable but also more informed, discerning, and resistant to misinformation. In an era where fake news is rampant, this cannot be understated.

In the global arena, the U.S. is not just competing with itself; it’s up against countries that are heavily investing in education, understanding its long-term benefits. Nations like Finland and Singapore, with their innovative teaching methodologies and emphasis on holistic education, are setting global standards. For the U.S. to maintain its position as a global leader, it’s imperative to look both inward, at states like Massachusetts and Washington, and outward, to learn from international best practices. The fusion of domestic success stories with global insights can create an education system that’s not just best for America but also world-class.

In conclusion, the path has been charted. It’s time for the rest of the nation to take note and embark on this journey toward educational excellence. After all, our children deserve nothing but the best.

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

I don’t know if you have seen people from the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and most recently the Screen Actors Guild (SAGAFTRA) striking for better wages and future working conditions. As I learn more about their concerns and demands, the more I see how all labor struggles are inextricably linked and we need to pay close attention to these fights.

The wealth gap continues to increase in this country and we see studio executives making millions and cashing out for millions, all while paying their employees a mere fraction of their salaries.

Many people think of A-list celebrities and think, why should I support rich people striking? However, the household named celebrities are a very very small percentage of those in the Writers Guild and Screen Actors Guild. For context, there are more than 16,000 members in the WGA and around 160,000 members in SAG. The vast majority of the members of SAG are not even eligible for health insurance because they don’t make enough money. They are working actors and writers who use their skills to make a living and they do not want to let artificial intelligence (AI) come in and write their scripts or use their likeness in future projects. They are also asking for a piece of the pie from the studios who make millions from streaming services.

These strikes are for the future of their industry. Just like coal miners in Alabama striking for better working conditions, better wages, and the future of their industry, the members of WGA and SAG also want to protect the future of their work. If you watch television or movies, you should be paying attention to the strike, their demands, and how studio executives are treating the workers in their industry.

Lots of people want to know how they can support members of WGA and SAG at this time. As of now, canceling your streaming subscription is not helpful. Unless the unions call for that, do not cancel your subscription to prove a point. The best way to help those on strike is to donate to the Entertainment Community Fund which provides a safety net for performing arts and entertainment professionals over their lifespan. To find out more go to www.entertainmentcommunity.org. You can also learn more about the various labor struggles happening on college campuses, at hospitals, and airports all over the country, to name just a few places. As Dr. Martin Luther King always told us, we are all joined by collective labor struggles. Whether we are looking out for transit worker or sanitation worker, or writers or nurses, we should care that our fellow community members are making a decent living wage for their work. This is the beginning of a larger labor wave so let’s educate ourselves on how we can help fight and win.

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.