Learning

"Compared to a typical school year, teachers reported that more of their students started the 2020-21 school year behind and made less academic progress, according to GAO's generalizable survey of K-12 public school teachers. Teachers also reported that many students ended the year behind grade level expectations (see figure). Educators and parents also shared their insights and experiences about student struggles and learning loss during the year." more »

"Keeping Canadians safe is the Government of Canada’s top priority. We know that one Canadian killed by gun violence is one too many, which is why, two years ago, we banned over 1,500 types of military-style assault firearms. We also strengthened our gun control laws to expand background checks and keep firearms out of the wrong hands. These measures are helping to keep our children and communities safe." The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau ... announced the introduction of new legislation to further strengthen gun control in Canada and keep Canadians safe from gun violence. more »

"A democracy cannot survive if its citizens forsake the rule of law in favor of violence or threats of violence. We are all in this together. We must protect each other." ... So, for me, public service is a way to repay the debt my family owes to this country for our very lives. " "These are our fellow citizens — who administer our elections, ensure our safe travel, treat the sick, teach the children, report the news, represent their constituents, ensure the rule of law, and keep our communities safe." "Finally, the preservation of democracy requires our willingness to tell the truth. Together, we must ensure that the magnitude of an event like January 6th is not downplayed or understated. The commitment to the peaceful transfer of power must be respected by every American. Our democracy depends upon it." Remarks as delivered. more »

Wilma Pearl Mankiller had a life of many achievements and many difficulties. She gained fame as the first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. She also endured many health problems and hit a few brick walls. Her life has been a popular topic. This is just one of many biographies, in addition to Mankiller’s autobiography... While Wilma was a first, her career gives the author ample opportunity to discuss the role of gender in the Cherokee Nation. Suffice it to say that women as a group had more power than in the larger white society, but less independence. For more on this, you’ll have to read the book. more »