November 9, 2023

Mass Exodus in HISD?

Is there a teacher shortage in Houston schools?

NEWS

PROFILE

ELECTION RUNOFF

CHAZZ BAILEY

The race for Houston mayor and city controller will now be decided on Dec. 9.

The new head of My Brother’s Keeper has big plans for the organization.

Volume 93, issue 2 November 9, 2023

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DN To the POINT

Lason Butler. Screenshot WIS TV, JPEG

Message from the Associate Editor INCARCERATED WRONGS

who Trump accused of being biased against When it comes to Blackfolk, our humanhim, and New York Attorney General Letiity is rarely honored whether we are behind tia James, whom Trump called a “political bars, spittin’ bars or passing the Bar. Our hack.” “This is the opposite of fraud,” the forhumanity has always been disrespected, mer reality TV star declared, before referespecially for those of us who are incarring to James, saying, “The fraud is her.” And cerated. Recently, reports surfaced that an the same judge who would have thrown the incarcerated brother in South Carolina, book, the kitchen sink and a few hot combs Lason Butler, was literally eaten alive by at any of us, meekly told Trump’s attorney rats. How in the absolute hell? This comes while Trump was trumpin’, “I beseech you just months after another incarcerated to control him if you can. If you can’t, I will.”

Aswad Walker brother in Fulton County, GA, Lashawn Sure, you will.

Thompson, was reportedly eaten alive by bedbugs. This is absolutely unacceptable. Who is losing their job and/or fac- VOUCHER CRAZY ing criminal charges over this? Making matters worse, when A recent survey said the majority of Texans support you look at US crime statistics the folk committing the most vouchers, even though countless progressive democratic crimes are not us, even though we’re the ones being over-po- reps from Texas’ biggest urban cities and numerous conliced, over-arrested, overcharged and over-sentenced when servative reps from the state’s smallest rural towns all stand compared to whites arrested for similar offenses. Plus, stats against them… as has been shown by their collaboration show that Blackfolk have the highest percentage of wrongly to continuously defeat Gov. Greg Abbott’s efforts to make convicted people behind bars. So, like the greatest hip-hop vouchers the law of the land. Still, these so-called surveys group in history (Public Enemy) said in the greatest hip-hop say the majority of Blackfolk in Texas support vouchers. song in history (“Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos”) about our That’s suspect to me because all across America, Blackfolk incarcerated kin, “Along with the time they served, decency (and er’body else) are saying just the opposite. The numbers was deserved.” But what’s happening now is beyond indecent. in Texas, however, may be accurate. And if they are, we It’s criminal. may have just gotten played. Look at Blackfolks’ support for vouchers before TEA took over HISD and you’ll see, we were SEPARATE & UNEQUAL in line with our people across the country. I may be crazy, The “big news” from this week’s Trump trial is that this but the havoc, dysfunction, distrust and chaos brought on spoiled, entitled, narcissistic man-child is acting spoiled, by the undemocratic overthrow of HISD may have pushed entitled and narcissistic. Okay; no real surprise. What’s also Blackfolk over to the side of vouchers in an effort to seek not surprising is the lack of accountability the “insurrection- educational relief from Mike Miles’ purposeful mayhem. ist-in-chief ” is facing for his courtroom antics. According to Abbott’s efforts were defeated again recently. But you best reports, Trump has been defiantly and belligerently “verbally believe the mayhem will continue. sparring” with the judge. And for those who don’t know, “verbally sparring” is a term used to describe whitefolk who are ON THE WEB guilty of contempt, being all the way out of order and doing • Dr. Leola Anifowoshe transforms lives via hair restoration. things that would have gotten one of us thrown under the jail.

• Astros building entertainment district next to Minute Because y’all know, if we even look at the judge cross-eyed Maid Park. we’re held in contempt. But not Trump. He’s in the court• Get the latest updates on Houston-area HS Football room shooting personal jabs at state Judge Arthur Engoron, playoffs.

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DN News ELECTION WRAP

Major races head to Dec. 9 runoff

By ReShonda Tate

The race for Houston mayor is headed to a runoff between U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee and State Sen. John Whitmire on Dec. 9.

Jackson Lee and Whitmire emerged from a crowded mayoral race that drew 17 candidates to the ballot and one write-in candidate. Crime, crumbling infrastructure, and potential budget shortfalls are some of the issues highlighted by candidates.

If elected, Jackson Lee would be Houston’s first Black female mayor, a meaningful change for America’s fourth-largest city.

Since 1995, she has represented Houston in Congress. Whitmire has lapped his rivals in fundraising after five decades in the Texas Legislature, where he has helped drive tough-on-crime policies while also casting himself as a reformer.

Jackson Lee told supporters on Election night that she’s focused on providing for the needs of families and children as well as prioritizing public safety, creating more jobs for residents and showing she can be a mayor “for all of the people.”

Whitmire told his supporters that while he’s focused on bringing attention to concerns residents have over infrastructure and public safety, the city’s “best days are in front of us.”

Jackson Lee and Whitmire — two of Houston’s main political fixtures — spent months dominating the open mayoral. But neither could pass the threshold of more than 50% of the vote, which is necessary to avoid a runoff. In early tabulations, Whitmire had about 43% of the vote to Jackson-Lee’s 36%.

Whitmire and Jackson Lee are seeking to replace Mayor Sylvester Turner, who has served eight years and can’t run again because of term limits. Houston’s mayor will lead what is considered one of the country’s most diverse cities. Of the city’s 2.3 million residents, 45% are Latino, 23% are Black and 24% are white. One in every four Houston residents was born outside the U.S. City Controller

Also on the runoff ballot will be two former Harris County officials seeking to be the Houston City Controller. Chris Hollins polled roughly 45% of the vote and Orlando Sanchez 27%.

City Council

Most of the council members who were running easily held onto their seats. But Mary Nan Huffman will have to fight during a runoff to hang on to her District G seat.

Texas attorney Tony Buzbee drew enough support from voters to force a runoff. Huffman finished the night with 49.4% of the vote to Buzbee’s 41.3%.

a population proportional voting system, according to Fair for Houston. The effort will encourage regional voice on decisions about transportation, flood control efforts and childcare vouchers, according to the organization.

Harris County- Proposition A will allocate $2.5 billion to build a new public hospital. More than half of the money from the bond would be used to build a new trauma hospital and provide mental healthcare services at LBJ, Esmaeil Porsa, CEO of the Harris Health System, said. Porsa said the money would keep the county’s hospitals from falling apart.Those dollars could also go towards establishing new community clinics in northwest, southwest and east community clinics to reach high-density, low socio-economic communities. Money from the bond will also be used to add more inpatient rooms at the Harris Health Ben Taub Hospital.

Sheila Jackson Lee speaks to supporters at her watch party.

Propositions

Houston-area voters approved all three local propositions on the ballot.

Proposition A passed by 83 percent of Houston voters, will give council members more power to place items on weekly city council agendas. With the propositions passage, three or more city council members will have the power to add items to agendas.

Previously, only the mayor had the power to place items on council agendas.Outgoing Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner has publicly criticized the move in the past. Now Houston’s newest undetermined Mayor will be charged with assisting council members to add additional items on agendas in the future.

Proposition B was approved by nearly 66% of Proposition B, which would compel proportionality in the city’s regional government organization, and give Houston a bigger role on decision-making.The proposition will require the city to pull out of the Houston-Galveston Area Council unless the organization grants the city proportional representation. The move will add language to the city’s charter requiring that any council of government or metropolitan planning organization adopt

Election issues

Voting in the Houston area, a Democratic stronghold in GOP-led Texas, was under additional scrutiny this election following a new law signed this year by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott. The law clears the way for the state to take control of voting in Harris County, which includes Houston, if it determines there is a “recurring pattern of problems” with elections.

Another new state law eliminated the county’s elections administrator and transferred the responsibility to other local officials.Harris County election officials said there were some problems at polling locations, including issues with voting machines, which can cause long lines, and ballot scanners. But none of the problems severely disrupted voting and 93% of the county’s 701 voting centers were open by 7 a.m., officials said.

One of the officials now responsible for running local elections, Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth, said her office had a plan in place to deal with problems, including assigning a technician to every voting location and promptly dealing with calls for help.“Today, I feel like it’s been fairly smooth,” Hudspeth said.

Chris

Hollins

Orlando Sanchez

Voter turnout up

More t han 435,000 voters showed up at the polls, Hudspeth said, and that includes more than 211,000 who voted in-person on Election Day itself.

Typically, less voters show up for runoff elections.

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DN News Is Trump gaining ground with Black voters?

Defender News Service

Houston letter carriers rally against the criminal acts against them on the job. Credit: National Association of Letter Carriers

Houston letter carriers rally amidst growing assaults

By Laura Onyeneho

For Ulysses Wells, mail has always been more than just a job. It’s about connecting communities, building trust, and ensuring the smooth flow of information and packages. He’s one of those friendly faces that brighten your day when they drop off your mail.

However, in recent times, the simple act of delivering the mail has taken a disturbing turn. The rising trend of assaults and robberies targeting letter carriers has cast a shadow of fear over postal workers like Wells. Once considered a symbol of trust and security in American neighborhoods, they’re now becoming victims themselves.

“I’ve always been passionate about my job,” Wells said. “Being a letter carrier allows you to connect with your community in a unique way. You’re not just delivering mail; you’re delivering a sense of trust and reliability. But recently, that trust has been shaken.”

Wells’ sentiments resonate with countless letter carriers who now find themselves grappling with a sense of vulnerability while delivering mail to residents and businesses in Houston.

It’s an alarming situation that poses far-reaching consequences, including stolen mail and harm to the local community.

Wells, who was robbed last year while delivering the mail, says his job has become increasingly dangerous.

In response to this growing threat, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) organized a rally at the North Shepherd Post Office in Houston on Oct. 25, called “Enough is Enough.” The rally served as a

New polling data shows Donald Trump leading Joe Biden if a presidential election was held today, and Black folks will be crucial in helping him win. The results of polls conducted

by The New York Times and Siena College found that Biden is trailing Trump in swing states expected to play outsized roles in the 2024 election, including some that previously helped secure Biden’s victory in 2020.

Of those states – Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin – just one shows Biden beating Trump by a slim margin. There are also more Black voters from those states – 22% of them – supporting a Republican presidential candidate than ever previously recorded, the New York Times reported: While polling is far from definitive, it can provide an indication of trends.

Celebrities like rappers Waka Flocka Flame and Sexxy Red have jumped on the Trump train. Trump credits his mugshot from his indictment in Georgia for allegedly trying to overturn the 2020 election in Fulton County for “quadrupleding” his support among Black voters (because Black folks love criminality and supporting ‘victims’).

A CNN poll in September found that Biden was losing ground with Black voters, his most loyal base of voters, while the nation’s overall electorate was seemingly split between the incumbent and Trump – data that doesn’t bode well for Biden, especially when it found Biden is also “underperforming among nonwhite voters.”

Houston Letter carriers rally for safety amidst growing assaults.

Credit: National Association of Letter Carriers

platform to raise awareness of these increasing assaults and robberies targeting postal workers in the Houston area.

According to NALC, these crimes have increased in both frequency and severity, not only in Houston but statewide and nationally. Notably, over 2,000 similar incidents have been reported across the United States, a significant increase from the 700 incidents reported in 2022.

At least 25 robberies happened in Houston last year. They’ve also stated that only 14% of these crimes result in arrests or prosecutions. This disconcerting statistic leaves many assailants unaccountable for their actions and raises pressing questions about the safety and security of postal workers who play an essential role in delivering mail and packages.

Shawn Boyd, the National Business Agent for NALC, says there are three major actions that need to take place to improve the safety of the workers.

“First, we need the postal service to protect us. Secondly, those who commit these crimes should be federally

prosecuted,” he said. “Thirdly, we are going into the holiday season, and we need the eyes and ears of our community and law enforcement to look out for us.”

In response to the growing threat, the USPS has unveiled its Project Safe Delivery Campaign. This campaign is an effort to combat postal crimes, protect postal workers, and enhance security measures for both physical and digital targets. The USPS is also increasing monetary rewards for information that may lead to the arrest and conviction of individuals responsible for these crimes.

“As our nation continues to address a sustained crime wave, our targeted focus to crack down on postal crime is progressing,” said Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer Louis DeJoy in an official statement. “The safety of our letter carriers — and all postal employees — is our top priority. We will continue to work steadfastly with our law enforcement partners to increase the safety of our employees and protect the sanctity of the nation’s mail.”

VOLUME 93, NUMBER 2 - NOVEMBER 9, 2023 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Sports Terrance Harris Jimmie Aggison

Digital Content Manager Get Current Studios Managing Editor ReShonda Tate Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Social Media Jordan Hockett Ad Executive Jodie B. Jiles

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2023 copyright.

No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288

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DN Feature CHILDREN AT RISK

Ruth Simmons honored

By Aswad Walker

Finally, some truly deserving “Academy Award” winners.

“Accolades,” known as the statewide “Academy Awards of Child Advocacy,” honored individuals from across Texas for their commitment to improving the lives of children. The awards were handed out recently during Children at Risk’s annual Accolades Luncheon.

The event’s featured honoree, however, was the illustrious Dr. Ruth Simmons, former president of Smith College, Brown University and most recently, Prairie View A&M University.

“I’m so humbled and really honored to be recognized in this way by Children at Risk, an organization that through collaboration with so many organizations, fights bravely for the betterment of children’s lives,” said Simmons. “Theirs is a mission that is deeply, deeply meaningful to me.”

Simmons didn’t stop there.

“I say this very often to people who are doing this work who perhaps don’t recognize how vital it is for those people who

suffer to know that somebody’s working tirelessly on their behalf. Whether formulating evidence-based policy recommendations or catalyzing important changes in the quality of life for children through education and advocacy, Children at Risk is saving lives and assuring better futures for thousands of deserving young people.”

Simmons, who currently serves as the lone President’s Distinguished Fellow at Rice University and Adviser to the President of Harvard University on its HBCU initiative, is a proud Wheatley High School alum, and she let “Accolades” attendees gathered at Hotel Zaza know it.

“You should know right away that Fifth Ward is a lot better than Third Ward. Yes. And Wheatley is better than Yates,” she said to both laughter and contention.

But beyond her jovial remarks, Simmons was dead serious about her respect for the work done by all of the organizations who had nominees in line for various regional and statewide “Accolades” awards, sharing her personal testimony.

“Your hopes and ambitions for children,

you must know, can work magic for them.

Looking back, it’s hard for me even today to believe what their efforts brought. That a girl from Fifth Ward could, as part of the first generation to benefit from the full enfranchisement of Blacks, start in segregated schools in Houston, progress to college, and ultimately reach the heights of academic leadership by becoming the first African American to lead an Ivy League University is evidence of what efforts like those of this organization can bring to the world,” said Simmons.

The event, emceed by Fox 26 News anchor Rashi Vats, offered words that not only celebrated great work being done for youth across Texas, but expressed the urgency and need for more work to be done so that Black and Brown youth don’t have to be in a position to “beat the odds.”

“Every child should be able to grow up in our state and know that the odds are with them for success, but in fact they’re not,” said Dr. Bob Sanborn, president and CEO, Children at Risk. “And that is what Children at Risk is all about. How do we even out the

Dr. Bob Sanborn, Dr. Ruth Simmons and Donald Bowers during the recent Children at Risk Accolades Luncheon. Photo by Aswad Walker.

odds? How do we change the system so that those 63% of our kids that are growing up in low-income families, those 70% of our kids that are children of color in our state, the third of our kids that are immigrants; how do we make sure that all of those kids, every single one of our children can be successful?

And that’s what Children at Risk is all about.

Our staff works tirelessly to make sure that we can even the odds and make sure the kids can be successful in our state.”

Connection matters.

Turn to the people and things that make life happier and healthier.

A conversation with a close friend.

TurnToSupportsTX.org

A walk in your favorite park.

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A relaxing family dinner.

A new hobby that makes you smile.

For more resources and support, visit TurnToSupportsTX.org

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DN Education

| 7

HISD shares plans for growth

By Amaka Watson

HISD released a comprehensive draft plan under the “District of Innovation” (DOI) status that could potentially enable the district to forge ahead with several transformative changes in education.

“The draft plan is designed to support the district’s progress toward Destination 2035, where every student graduates prepared to succeed in the modern workplace and world,” the district said.

The district said the draft includes proposed exemptions which fall within three areas, which are, quality of instruction, modern staffing, and improved schools.

This is a designation that more than 960 school districts across the state fall under. It allows more than 60 exemptions from state laws over school operations. About every eligible school district in Texas is a DOI, and HISD, along with Cypress-Fairbanks, are the only two districts in the Houston area that have not obtained the designation.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s on the horizon: HISD is contemplating a shift in its academic calendar, allowing the commencement of the school year as early as the first Monday

HISD Superintendent Mike Miles speaks to a room full of parents and educators at Pugh Elementary School discussing NES plan. Credit: Jimmie Aggison

in August. HISD is considering extending the academic calendar to include up to 185 days of instruction, which will most likely result in educators working a longer academic year. Currently, HISD has 172 instructional days in the school year, along with 75 in the first semester and 97 in the second semester.

The proposal also introduces a significant

shift by allowing the hiring of uncertified teachers without necessitating a waiver from the state.

The draft says the district will offer a “competitive compensation package for instructional staff.” The amount however, was not stated.

HISD may gain greater autonomy over class size limits, particularly for elementary students and will develop its own teacher evaluation system under this proposed plan. This year, HISD Superintendent Mike Miles made the attempt to implement an evaluation system only to be blocked by a judge in a lawsuit from the Houston Federation of Teachers.

The quest for “District of Innovation” status is not new for HISD. In 2020, the district pursued the District of Innovation status, and was shot down by the District Advisory Committee, who are responsible for voting for the plan. In September, Miles and the appointed board of managers voted for the process to begin.

The district’s seven-member DOI committee includes school board member Janette Garza-Lindner, HISD’s deputy chief of staff Janette Garza-Lindner, HISD’s deputy chief of staff Jessica Morffi and other community members who developed the plan.

Here are a few exemptions in more context:

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Modified School Year: HISD seeks the authority to start the school year earlier and extend it up to 185 days, offering more flexibility in the academic calendar.

Teacher Evaluation Independence: HISD plans to develop its own teacher evaluation system, distinct from the state’s system, tailoring assessments to the district’s unique objectives.

Streamlined Teacher Training: Instead of campus-by-campus teacher training, HISD wants the ability to conduct training in regional or district-wide events, enhancing efficiency.

Certification Requirement: The district aims to waive the requirement for all teachers to hold certification to teach their grade and subject, thus diversifying the teaching staff.

Certification Notification: HISD plans to eliminate the need to notify families if their child’s instructor lacks certification, emphasizing flexibility in teacher assignments.

Discipline Staff Designation: The proposal seeks to scrap the rule requiring each campus to have a designated staff member solely focused on student discipline.

Excused Absences for College Visits: HISD intends to increase the number of excused absences students may have for college visits, facilitating college preparation.

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DN InFocus

Mass Exodus in HISD?

Is there a teacher shortage in Houston schools?

Tuan Nguyen, a Kansas State University education professor, along with two other colleagues collected data on teacher shortages last year. This chart details the shortage in Texas.

T

By Tannistha Sinh

his summer, Ms. Smith (who wanted to remain anonymous) left the Houston Independent School District (HISD) where she taught at a school with a majority of Black and Latinx students, and joined Katy ISD the day before teachers could submit their resignations without penalty. She says the stress from all the changes that were being implemented in HISD schools was enough to convince her to switch school districts.

“We’ve already been through enough during COVID. We’ve been stressed out for a very long time. And then this takeover… it was going to be even more stressful,” she said. “I don’t think a lot of these teachers can make it. That’s why so many have left already, and that’s why we have a teacher shortage.”

Smith tried to “hang in there” because of her care for her students.

“But after a while, you have to just say, ‘I gotta go take care of myself,’” she said.

“I noticed over the summer, the superintendent [Miles] would say one thing and then he would turn around and contradict himself,” Smith said. “He was making a lot of changes and a lot of questions couldn’t be answered. To me, those are like red flag after red flag, which showed this man either doesn’t have a plan, this person is not a very truthful person who doesn’t stick by his word, and I can’t believe anything that comes outta [his] mouth.”

Is there a teacher shortage in HISD?

The teacher shortage in Texas is not new and the crisis is worsening, one that is detrimental to the framework of education in any school as the vacancies are either left unfulfilled or filled with uncertified candidates or those lacking the necessary qualifications.

Last year, three Kansas State University education professors collected data on the teacher shortage in the country. They found 36,500 vacancies in 37 states and D.C. for the 2021-2022 school year. The published data suggested teacher shortages increased by 35% in these states, to more than 49,000 vacancies.

Texas, which employs more than 370,000 teachers, is now seeing a larger turnover than the decade before the pandemic began. Before 2020, only a little more than

THE TEACHER SHORTAGE IN TEXAS Details

Numbers

School Year

Total Students

5,428,609

2021-2022

Vacancies

1,828

2022-2023

Teachers Prep Completion

20,633

2020-2021

Total Teachers

371,002.28

2021-2022

Underqualification

49,346

2021-2022

Leaving Rate(%)

13.4

2022-2023

Teacher Prep Enrollment

110,309

2020-2021

1. Based on the data, there are 36,500 vacancies in 37 states and D.C. for the 2021-2022 school year. They also estimate there are at least 55,000 vacant positions and 270,000 underqualified positions.

2. The Learning Policy Institute, which reviewed teacher workforce reports and state agency documents covering the 2020-21 and 2027-22 school years, found that one in 10 of all teaching positions (ie. 314,134 positions at a minimum) were either unfilled or filled by teachers not fully certified.

3. Texas does not publish statewide data on unfilled teacher positions and has reported in the Out-ofField Teaching report that 29,426 teachers were teaching a subject that fell outside their certified subject area in the 2021-22 school year.

Table: Tannistha Sinha • Source: Annenberg Institute at Brown University • Created with Datawrapper

Initiatives in Houston

10% of the state’s teachers quit teaching each year. In 2023, that number jumped to 13.4%, or 50,000 teachers - the highest since the last year on record, 2007.

that the teachers are actually leaving,” Williams said.

Houston teacher The reasons for teachers vacancies: leaving are varied, per WilBY THE NUMBERS liams’ observations: salaries they were promised were incorrect, confusion about Why don’t we hear contracts and long work HISD about teachers hours without pay. In 2022, leaving? when she was teaching math Michelle Williams, the to eighth graders at ForCy-Fair ISD president of the Houston est Brook Middle School, Education Association, saw the school had two vacant a wave of resignations in the teacher positions until the summer. Teachers called end of the school year.

Katy ISD (as of July 2022) and messaged her, asking for In September, HISD help with their resignations. teachers’ unions demanded More recently, she has pay for extra hours and to observed that teacher unions are not hearing “restore language that guarantees a defined about HISD sending educators to the State work day and extra pay for educators.” The Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) to petition, started by the Houston Federation of get their certification sanctioned.

Teachers, says Miles and the board of manag“The reason why we haven’t heard it is ers eliminated educators’ “defined workday,” because they don’t want the public to know when the former policy paid them for duties

950 678 200

performed beyond their 7.75 hour workday.

Now, teachers can be assigned additional duties and activities with no guarantee that they will receive compensation.

“This is my 24th year in education and this is by far the worst [teacher shortage] that I’ve ever seen,” she added. “The district [HISD] is in the worst shape I’ve ever seen.”

Earlier in October, teachers in HISD received emails stating they will not receive overtime pay and that it is not required by federal law or local policy to pay overtime.

The payment is decided upon by the campus authority.

“Teachers in HISD are professional and exempt employees,” the email read. “For exempt staff, completion of work assignment is a primary emphasis. Since there is no overtime pay for exempt staff, the number of hours is of secondary importance.”

Owing to a severe physical and mental deterioration, another veteran HISD teacher started a GoFundMe page, seeking financial help to support herself while being on an

unpaid medical leave from HISD. On Oct. 6, she tried to seek a transfer from an NES-A school but was instead, assigned a different grade. She is yet to receive paperwork from HISD to her insurance company and ultimately, be compensated while on leave and is also seeking legal counsel.

“This TEA takeover of my employer is not only affecting my workplace, it’s affecting my home space,” she wrote.

Tara Jones, a former HISD teacher who retired in 2022 after more than 30 years in the profession, is now substituting at the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District. “There is pedagogy in the schools. The schools have PE teachers, nurses, librarians,” she said of the district.

Jones has heard of teachers going in and checking themselves into various hospitals for psychiatric care,” since the TEA takeover in summer. “It’s not about school reform, as the superintendent is saying, it’s about dismantling public education as we know it,” she said.

In a bid to address the shortage of teachers in Houston, HISD awarded three teacher prep program grants to Texas Woman’s University, Prairie View A&M University, and Tarleton State University. The aim of these Grow Your Own grants is to encourage more people to become teachers for free, where participants will earn a bachelor’s degree and Texas teaching license while being paid as a full-time teaching assistant in HISD. Moreover, the program promises to place 133 educators in HISD by the 2025-2026 school year in highneed subject areas like SPED, ESL and bilingual education.

The College of Professional Education (COPE) at Texas Woman’s University is also teaming up with Houston ISD. It aims to guide around 100 teaching assistants toward bachelor’s degrees and Texas teaching certificates through $500,000 in grants from HISD to produce educators from the district.

These grants are called Grow Your Own awards, and will be paired with TWU’s Zero Tuition Guarantee. These will cover all tuition and other costs for 95 Houston ISD teaching assistants to help them earn degrees and certifications in early childhood education, elementary education, special education and bilingual education. HISD will pay these teaching assistants as full-time employees while they attend online classes at TWU and also will provide support like advising field

supervision, and professional development. time, you will take the certification exams and HISD awarded 10 grants worth $1 million become certified,” Dr. Beebe explained. to three institutions, out of which (TWU) received half the amount.

Why HISD needs more Moreover, the Texas Higher Education teachers of color Coordinating Board (THECB) awarded HISD has a minority enrollment of 90%, around $62,000 to the College of Public Ser- with more than half (59.4%) coming from vice (CPS) and their Alternative economically disadvantaged Certification Program (ACP) backgrounds. to address the dearth of skilled According to myriad studies, teachers in Houston. Estimates students of color, especially Black indicate the city needs approxstudents, benefit more from teachimately 4,000 new teachers ers from the Black community. annually.

However, the share of students “Our message is not, ‘Do you and teachers of color is disproporHOW SCHOOL want to teach? When can you tionate. The diversity gap can be DISTRICTS start?’ Our message is, ‘We want explained by the teacher pipeline, CAN DEAL to make sure that you’re going to or simply - students of color don’t WITH A be successful in that classroom attend or graduate from college at TEACHER when you start,’” Dr. Beebe said. nearly the same rate as white stuSHORTAGE The TEA allows school disdents and those who do, are less AND WHAT tricts to uncertified teachers by likely to become teachers.

THE STATE IS submitting a request to waive A study in 2015 showed 4.4% DOING the requirements for a limited of white adults were teachers, but number of years. Recently, HISD only 1.8% of Black adults and 1.5% elected to use the certification waiver option of Hispanic adults were teachers. Even in the to hire and employ uncertified teachers for best-case scenario, where all Black college the 2023-24 school year. graduates choose to become teachers, the “The idea is that you get people who think number of Black teachers would minimally they might wanna be teachers and so you put exceed the number of white teachers. them in a classroom and hopefully they find Moreover, teachers of color have higher out they do wanna be teachers. But there’s turnover rates because they are more likely also the expectation that at a certain point in to work in high-need schools.

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DN Profile

Chazz Bailey SERVANT LEADER

Heads My Brother’s Keeper Houston

By Aswad Walker

My Brother’s Keeper Houston (MBKH), a Houston Health Department initiative focusing on empowering boys and young men of color, now has a new director – Chazz Bailey.

Bailey, COO (Creator of Opportunities) of the personal and professional coaching company The Lifted Lifestyle, is now leading MBKH. And he’s doing so by living his motto “purpose over profit,” believing that developing people and communities creates a domino effect that can positively change the world.

The Defender spoke with Bailey about his vision for MBKH to improve life outcomes for young men of color.

DEFENDER: What experiences led you to a life of service?

BAILEY: Well, I think the best experi-

ence is life. As a kid, I knew I wanted better for other people. I was a servant when I was young, not really paying attention to myself, but realizing that whatever happened to someone else made me better. I have to start out giving grace to my mother and father for bringing me up and allowing me to navigate through the space to understand a greater need other than myself.

DEFENDER: What are some examples of your service?

BAILEY: Being young, going to visit

nursing homes, going to mentor and help elementary children when I was in middle and high school. Then, when in college, I would actually mentor collegiate students, and that was my introduction to the 100 Black Men of America. I even started a chapter in Savannah, GA. And what I was

One thing my wife always says: “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” So, I make sure whatever I fill into myself – time, money, energy – I give to someone else.

CHAZZ BAILEY

able to do was see how that model worked, and see the data on how our people were affected. Then I said, “Okay, take what I know and just give it to someone else.”

One thing my wife always says: “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” So, I make sure whatever I fill into myself – time, money, energy – I give to someone else.

DEFENDER: How did 100 Black Men help in your development?

BAILEY: When I came to

Houston, I worked through the 100 ranks, creating programs, working with some of the great young minds and older minds of the city, and actually put my foot to the road. So, now I had a place to call home to really work. That work took me to the food banks, high schools, middle schools, the home yards, to just clean up the parks; to see the ins and outs on how a system really operates and works through organizations that are really about impact. That prepared me more than anything. Because it gave me real-time data and realtime work to do it.

DEFENDER: What’s your vision for MBK? BAILEY: My vision for the

MBKH Initiative is simply to convene people because it’s not just me that’s about doing great work out here. It is not just me that wants people to be better than they were.

It’s a lot of people out here already doing the work. So, the model that MBKH has is identifying those individuals or organizations that are doing this work and bringing them together. So, we are the backbone. And if you think about your body structure, all the other people are your nervous system; the nerves that make everything work. I want to be the bridge to bring people together about outcomes that need to be generated to move our city forward. Because through that type of work, collectively we can say we really have a community and then we can also change our community.

November 9, 2023 |

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DN Feature

HAUL launches career pathways program

By Amaka Watson

The Houston Area Urban League (HAUL) is extending its New Project Ready 3.0 NULITES Chapter to Aldine ISD’s Carver High School. NULITES is an acronym for National Urban League Incentives To Excel & Succeed.

The initiative welcomed a cohort of 100 students into the program on Nov. 3.

Each student was equipped with brandnew Dell Laptops, courtesy of Comcast.

These cutting-edge laptops are more than just devices; they symbolize a commitment to fostering the educational endeavors of these students. Additionally, HP extended a helping hand by providing laptop bags, a mouse, and earphones to ensure that these students are fully prepared for success.

HAUL Area Vice President Eric Goodie told the Defender that the laptops were a snippet of the investment they are willing to put into the initiative. They will also be providing “mentorship, tutoring, and personal and professional development to prepare students for the pathways towards a higher education and career.”

“These types of programs provide access.

Access is key for children to have choices,” said LaKeshia Williams, Carver High School principal. “Everything is impacted by technology and if you don’t have technology at home, what happens to you? Students fall behind.”

The core principle of Project Ready, founded by the National Urban League (NUL) in 2008, is to provide youth with an array of supports, services, and opportunities that go beyond traditional classroom education. It’s about preparing Black students and other historically underserved youth in grades 8 through 12 for the challenges of college and careers.

“When you think about the Aldine ISD community, 93% of our students are on free or reduced lunch,” said Dr. Latonya Goffney, Aldine ISD superintendent. “When we think about the concentration of poverty in our area, it’s significant. It’s partnerships, it’s the people that are going to make sure our students graduate with choices and opportunities.”

The ceremony was part of the NUL’s commitment to expand HAUL’s Project Ready College/Career Ready and Mentoring

Carver High School student recieves new laptop. Credit: Jimmie Aggison

program with a five-year grant, covering the period from 2021 to 2025. This initiative has already seen success, with HAUL’s Project Ready program at Houston ISD’s Worthing Early College High School over the last five years.

Since its launch, Project Ready has

touched the lives of more than 11,000 young individuals across the nation. It has offered vital academic support, life skills, and exposure to college access programs, all aimed at ensuring that these students are well-prepared for the journey beyond high school.

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12 | November 9, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature

Pastor Juanita and Rudy Rasmus were among the honorees.

ALLIES IN HOPE

Inaugural Hope for Houston Ball: A Night of Hope and Inspiration

By ReShonda Tate

Allies in Hope, formerly known as AIDS Foundation Houston (AFH), a leading nonprofit dedicated to ending the HIV epidemic in the greater Houston area, recently held the inaugural Hope for Houston Ball to bring attention to the HIV epidemic’s local impact.

Allies in Hope Chief Executive Officer William “Jeffrey” Campbell said, “I’m humbled to have the opportunity to lead Allies in Hope as we introduced our inaugural Hope for Houston Ball to our donors, community partners and clients. This event allowed us to celebrate the many accomplishments we have made in 2023. What I experienced this evening has made me more committed than ever to lead Allies in Hope in ending the HIV epidemic in the greater Houston area.”

Nearly 225 people attended the legendary ball, which brought in over $157K that will go to supporting the impactful programs and services Allies in Hope provides including but not limited to HIV/STI testing and treatment including at-home testing, case management, Stone Soup Food Pantry, Camp Hope

summer camp for children living with HIV, supportive housing programs, incarcerated/ recently released outreach and services, and much more.

The special presentation included an awards ceremony honoring prominent community advocates and Bread of Life, Inc. founders, Dr. Rudy Rasmus and Pastor Juanita Rasmus.

“For almost 30 years, we at Bread of Life have partnered with formerly AIDS Foundation Houston to offer education, prevention, and interventions; together we have been ALLIES IN HOPE! We celebrate this longstanding commitment to end the HIV epidemic in the greater Houston area!” Rudy Rasmus said.

Allies in Hope works toward the mission of ending the HIV epidemic in the greater Houston area. Focusing on HIV prevention, housing and supportive services to persons living with HIV, Allies in Hope provides care to almost 6,000 adults and youth affected by HIV and educates more than 75,000 people throughout Texas. For more information, visit www.aihhouston.org.

CLASSIFIED

I intend to register said names with Texas Secretary of State, in accordance with provisions of Assumed Name Statutes, to=wit: Section 5.051, Texas Statutes 2022 BOC. NOYE CAPITAL EXPRESS TRUST d/b/a RYAN FANTALEO DELAIRE NOYE CAPITAL EXPRESS TRUST d/b/a RYAN FANTALEO DELAIRE ESTATE NOYE CAPITAL EXPRESS TRUST d/b/a DELAIRE INVESTMENTS NOYE CAPITAL EXPRESS TRUST d/b/a NOYE CAPITAL EXPRESS TRUST ENTERPRISES NOYE CAPITAL EXPRESS TRUST ENTERPRISES d/b/a RYAN FANTALEO DELAIRE NOYE CAPITAL EXPRESS TRUST ENTERPRISES d/b/a DELAIRE INVESTMENTS

November 9, 2023 |

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DN Feature

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THA S.W.A.G.G BOIZ Step their way to success

By Laura Onyeneho

Ryan Shanklin is an educator and dance coach who embarked on a journey to bring a unique form of artistic expression to young Black and Brown students in Houston. The result? Tha S.W.A.G.G Boiz, an award-winning step dance team that has taken the local community by storm.

Five years ago, Shanklin, fondly known as “Coach Ryan,” was working as a third and fourth-grade science teacher at school in Houston. His students, young boys filled with potential and untapped talents, were the source of his inspiration. Ryan wanted to provide them with an opportunity to explore their creativity and perform a different kind of dance artistry, known as stepping.

Stepping is an art form that involves intricate footwork, body percussion, and synchronized movements. While it might not be as familiar to the Houston community as sports like basketball or football, Ryan believed that stepping could offer his students a an empowering outlet.

“The boys were basically in my class,” he shared, reflecting on the early days of Tha S.W.A.G.G Boiz. “I was just thinking of what we could do different besides the basketball teams, football teams. So, I was like, how Tha S.W.A.G.G Boiz. Credit: Laura Onyeneho about we start a step team after school? I remember I took a couple of the boys out to viral, they became local celebrities, their talent a TSU [Texas Southern University] step show, inspiring others to pursue their passions. and they liked it. So, after that, it was like, Furthermore, the experience of being part that’s how we formed.” of the team has been transformative for the The journey wasn’t without its challenges, young dancers. Many of them started as shy especially as the boys were new to the art of individuals, but through their involvement stepping. Many of them couldn’t keep a beat with the team, they’ve gained confidence or lacked rhythm initially. However, Ryan was and leadership skills. The team’s motto, undeterred, and the deter“Steppers Working to mination and commitment Achieve Greater Greatness,” of the young boys began reflects their commitment to shine through. They to personal growth and dedicated themselves to We always push empowerment. practice, often sacrificing “You can tell how much that goal because school games and other they want to work at this,” Tha S.W.A.G.G Boiz. Credit: Laura Onyeneho activities to become profi- we see that, we Lotts said. “To watch them cient steppers. want to win. We’ve grow over time and wit- the importance of arts education, emphasiz- constantly pushing the boundaries of their Ryan also drew support been winning, but ness how happy they are ing that not all students are inclined toward success. They strive not only to win comfrom LaDonte Lotts, his on stage, is the reason why STEM subjects, and that creativity and self-ex- petitions but to make an impact on the our success can’t assistant coach, who is a I do this work.” pression are equally vital. community. member of the Alpha Phi happen without The team now consists of Ryan shared a heartfelt moment from Their ambition extends beyond the stage, Alpha fraternity, known for the help of our 12 members, but it doesn’t teams journey that stood out to him. with Lotts emphasizing the need to provide its stepping tradition. This community and stop there. They have also “For me, that spark was honestly when we opportunities for the boys to excel individupartnership brought an created a junior team, flew to Atlanta for a competition. That was ally. They aspire to help the boys secure conresources to keep extra layer of authenticity ensuring that the legacy of a lot of the boys’ first time ever getting on a tracts and deals with various organizations and expertise to the team’s expanding.”

Tha S.W.A.G.G Boiz con- plane. So, to hear that conversation, like, ‘Oh, and companies, allowing them to showcase journey. tinues to flourish as they we’re gonna fly? We’re getting on the plane?’ their talents and travel nationwide.

LaDONTE LOTTS The impact of Tha progress from high school. some acting like they were nervous, some Additionally, they want to highlight the S.W.A.G.G Boiz has been They aim to do more excited, I was just watching and listening. I diverse talents of their members. These young monumental, not only within the team but than just win competitions and travel the was like, ‘Dang, we are actually doing some- artists are not just steppers; they are dancers, also in the broader community. The boys’ country. Ryan and Lotts dream of providing thing impactful.” singers, rappers, pianists, and athletes. The hard work and dedication quickly caught the resources, opportunities, and support for the The future of Tha Swagg Boiz looks bright team’s mission is to create a platform that celattention of social media. As their videos went talented youth they mentor. They believe in and full of potential. Ryan and his team are ebrates these multifaceted talents and values.

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Prairie View defensive back and Shadow Creek product DeJuan Lewis had three tackles and one interception during the Panthers’ 38-14 Homecoming win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

PJ Henry

Sports Briefs TSU-Alcorn State game moved to Sunday

The upcoming Texas Southern-Alcorn State football game at Shell Energy Stadium has been shifted to Sunday, Nov. 12 at 2 p.m. The Clarence move was necessary McKinney to accommodate the Dynamo. The Tigers and the Braves were originally scheduled to play on Nov. 11, but the Dynamo will host an MLS playoff game against Real Salt Lake on Saturday at 3 p.m.

Rockets pick up options on four key players

The Rockets are clearly pleased with the direction they are headed with their young core of players and that’s clear through their recent action. The team anJalen nounced it has exercised Green the fourth-year team options on guard Jalen Green and center Alperen Sengun. Additionally, the Rockets have picked up the third-year team options on Tari Eason and Jabari Smith Jr.

Donovan Smith leads UH to first Big 12 road victory

The University of Houston Cougars recorded their first Big 12 road win when quarterback Donovan Smith came through with the game-winning 1-yard touchdown run for the 25-24 overtime victory Donovan over Baylor. “We knew Smith what play we were going to run,” said Houston coach Dana Holgorsen. “They knew it and it worked. I guess the football gods were looking after us.”

PVAMU setter Leah Lawson receives SWAC honor

Prairie View junior setter Leah Lawson was named SWAC Volleyball Setter of the Week after she led the Lady Panthers with 101 assists in Leah three matches against Lawson Jackson State (33 assists), Mississippi Valley State (27) and Alabama A&M (41). Lawson, who began her collegiate career at East Central University, has also posted 2,000 career assists, 848 of which have come since she arrived at Prairie View.

Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud passed for a rookie-record 470 yards and threw five touchdown passes, including the gamewinner in the 39-37 win over Tampa Bay.

Welcomes expanded role at TSU

By Terrance Harris

For the past couple of seasons, it was easy for Texas Southern guard PJ Henry to just fall back and let his game do all the talking.

The Tigers had plenty of experienced upperclassmen to handle the leadership piece.

But the Tigers have reloaded and have a lot of new faces, which has thrust the unassuming fifth-year senior into a role he may not be familiar with. Henry is now the leader of the TSU men’s basketball team and it’s a challenge he believes he is built for.

“My role is to lead now,” said Henry, who began his collegiate career at Hartford after starring at Shadow Creek. “When I first transferred I wasn’t a leader. I had older guys in front of me. So now I’ve learned from them and now it’s my turn to lead this team to winning.”

It’s a huge undertaking, considering the stakes for the Tigers this season. TSU, which tipped off its season against New Mexico this week, is aiming for an unprecedented fourth straight SWAC Championship season. And according to the preseason poll of the conference coaches, the Tigers are the favorites.

The SWAC coaches also picked Henry as the SWAC Preseason Player of the Year after he dominated the conference tournament the past two seasons.

“He’s been MVP of our conference tournament the last two years, and my expectations of him are nothing less,” said Texas Southern coach Johnny Jones, who enters his sixth year at the helm. “He is a special player. He has been tremendous for us and I just expect great things from him.

“I just think all of those things he has done, his leadership, his offseason workouts… I suspect all of those things will come together at the right time and he will have an MVP-type year for us.”

Invites increased expectations

In some ways, the 5-foot-10 Henry relishes the lofty expectations that are being put on his shoulders. But the Tigers’ threeyear starter prefers keeping the spotlight on the team.

“That’s good for me, but I don’t really look at that or take that some kind of way,” Henry said of the preseason player of the year recognition. “I’m a team player and I want to win. When you win everybody

PJ Henry averaged 12.4 points for the Tigers last season and is the SWAC Preseason Player of the Year.

gets noticed.”

That doesn’t mean, he’d rather not have the acknowledgment.

“That’s something I worked for all my life,” Henry said. “I work for stuff like that, but it’s not something that I’m heavily focused on.”

Learning new team

His focus, at least early in the season, is bringing together a new cast of players who now have the expectations of winning another SWAC Championship and getting the Tigers back to the NCAA Tournament for a fourth straight year.

Veteran standouts like Joirdon Karl Nicholas and John Walker III along with Davon Barnes have been replaced by transfers like guards Jonathan Cisse and Jaylen Wysinger and front-court players Kenny Hunter and Jahmar Young Jr. The talent is there with the newcomers, especially Cisse and Hunter, but now it’s a matter of becoming a cohesive unit.

“This team can be very good,” said Henry, who averaged 12.4 points last season. “We are still learning. We’ve got new people. We’ve got to come together and be ready to play and play hard night in and night out, and we’ve still got to learn and go through this journey.”

Working on his game

That’s why this offseason was so

important for Henry, as he had to get back healthy after last season’s grueling campaign. Henry, who temporarily put his name in the NCAA transfer portal last spring, worked on improving his body and his game coming into this season.

His goal is to improve his shooting, which dipped last season to 33.8% from the field and 34.4% from 3-point range after taking on more of the scoring load.

“I take working on my game very important and seriously,” Henry said. “I would say I’ve gotten better in all aspects of my game as far as shooting, leading, getting my teammates involved and just playing my game.”

Jones has been pleased with the results so far.

“It’s probably the best he has looked since he has been here,” said Jones, whose team travels to Arizona State this weekend to take on the Sun Devils in the SWAC-Pac-12 Challenge. “It’s one of those deals. This is his last year. He realized that during the offseason, he was banged up at the beginning of last year during conference play.

“So he has worked extremely hard during the offseason and it’s really put him into a position that he is in the best shape that he has been in since he has been here.

He is the healthiest he has been since he has been here and that gives us reason to be excited.”

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DEFENDER NETWORK

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DN Sports

You have to work hard. It all started at practice last December. Running, quarterback drills, lifting weights, and watching film all day. We’ve been doing it all day. You have to practice for it. That’s it.”

DAVION EDWARDS

WORTHING QB

DAVION EDWARDS Enjoys his last ride

By Jimmie Aggison

The Worthing Colts have had an outstanding 2023 football season. With a perfect record of 7-0 in 4A-1 Region III District 11, the Colts are playoff-bound for the second straight year. Teams that make it to the playoffs allow their seniors to make just a few more memories while in high school before either playing on the next level or hanging up their jerseys for good.

Worthing’s Davion Edwards is one of those seniors.

As Worthing faced the unbeaten Jack Yates Lions for the district title and bragging rights, Davion put the team on his back and accounted for five touchdowns, four rushing and one passing.

“We just wanted to win. This is my last ride. Nobody can mess with us. We wanted it, we got it, I’m happy,” said Edwards.

“Davion has been with us since his freshman year, so we’ve been able to see him grow,” said Worthing head coach Brandon Ellis. “In the past, a lot of people have always ranked us low and he was one of the kids that said, ‘Coach, we are going to win district before I get out as a senior.’

And tonight he stepped up to the plate.”

Edwards began playing football when he was five years old for the Southside Colts in the back of Worthing High School. He stayed with the organization until he reached middle school, and chose to take a break from the game.

“I didn’t play middle school football. I began playing high school football again in the 10th grade,” said Edwards.

“I started off as a running back, then I went to receiver, now I’m playing quarterback.”

With Edwards’ speed and elusiveness at the quarterback position, one may compare him to the Baltimore Ravens’ signal-caller Lamar Jackson.

“I like how he runs the ball but is also able to get the ball downfield through the air,” said Edwards.

During the off-season, Edwards wasted no time playing around as he found himself watching film and lifting weights to improve his skill level.

“You have to work hard. It all started at practice last December. Running, quarterback drills, lifting weights, and watching film all day. We’ve been doing it all day. You have to practice for it. That’s it,” said Edwards.

“When Davion came to us as a sophomore, he was so

talented it came easy to him. However, in these last two years, he actually began to put the work in and developed discipline. It became a routine and that became infectious amongst the team as we grew,” said Ellis.

Worthing’s season has been prolonged as they are playoff-bound, stretching the season just a little longer for seniors like Edwards.

ABOUT DAVION EDWARDS

Class: 2024 IG: @dat.boy.dman Position: Quarterback Height & weight: 6-feet-1, 185 pounds Players he studies: Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens) Status: uncommitted Favorite artist: J Dawg, NBA YoungBoy Favorite subject: Math Shout-outs: Momma, team, coaches

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DEFENDER NETWORK

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