EarthWays Center’s Post

How much has your state represented Native Americans? How well are Native Americans incorporated into its governance? The same should be asked about local governments. Kudos to Gov. Wes Moore and the state of #maryland for noting the core part of the fabric of his state (and the fabric of the union). #governance #representation #diversity #nativeamericans #localgovernment #stategovernment #nativeamericanheritage

To support our youth, we must encourage them to further discover and take ownership of their voice, power, courage, and avenues for contribution. Read this article to learn how the Close Up foundation is creating future Tribal leaders and learn more about Native American Heritage Month. https://ow.ly/nJi750U0RLB

American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten says teachers in America “will fight with every fiber we have… to keep public education and to keep an opportunity for knowledge and for opportunity agency for our kids.” Watch her conversation with Michael A. Nutter and Ester Fuchs during the 25th annual David N. Dinkins Leadership and Public Policy Forum: https://lnkd.in/exbRVRgt 

We’re thrilled to announce a new partnership with Blackfeet Community College (BFCC), creating pathways for students and employees to pursue fully online degrees while staying connected to their community. For WGU alum Skye Gilham, a proud member of the Blackfeet Tribe, this collaboration is deeply personal. Skye, a BFCC STEM instructor and WGU Distinguished Graduate Award recipient, uses her education to preserve Blackfeet traditions and mentor young leaders. “Education isn’t just about degrees,” Skye shared. “It’s about strengthening our community, preserving our history, and creating opportunities for the next generation.” This partnership reflects WGU’s commitment to expanding access to higher education in tribal communities while honoring their unique heritage. 📚 Read more about this inspiring collaboration here: https://lnkd.in/gvQmwFzC #WGU #HigherEducation #BlackfeetNation #CommunityEmpowerment #TribalColleges

An excellent plan

Alliance members, City Year, Public Allies, and Tilting Futures, have partnered with the Peace Corps' Circle of Service initiative to build a community for motivated changemakers to seamlessly transition between service roles throughout their lives, expanding their global impact and strengthening the future of public service. The Circle of Service is a Peace Corps initiative to formally partner with service organizations and create lasting pathways for individuals committed to public service. Through this initiative, the Peace Corps aims to foster a lifelong culture of giving back by connecting volunteers with meaningful opportunities to serve both domestically and globally. “The solutions to our world’s most pressing challenges will come from leaders who represent and are deeply connected to the communities they serve. This partnership with the Peace Corps Circle of Service is essential to creating the systemic changes needed to educate, inspire, and support our nation’s next generation of service-oriented leaders.” – Erin Lewellen, CEO, Tilting Futures Learn more at https://bit.ly/3NU1A4N

The latest edition of The National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) National Standards Monograph Series is Governance and Leadership: A Sourcebook for Practitioners (NESBECS Standards 5 & 6). (https://lnkd.in/e9cybctY) The work of Julie Cantillon, Ph.D., ADAC Vice President for Academics & Advocacy (former Associate Superintendent for the Diocese of San Diego), is summarized and cited as an example from the field for the establishment of a professional collaborative environment (pages 94-96).

📈 Our College Football Series Continues! 📈 This week, we’re diving into a high-stakes HBCU matchup between Johnson C. Smith University and Winston-Salem State University. Johnson C. Smith, the only undefeated HBCU team left in the season, has just broken into the Division II top 20 rankings—showcasing some of the best football talent in Division II and building momentum toward a CIAA championship run. 🏈 A Legacy of Excellence: Johnson C. Smith’s legacy stretches back to 1892, when its predecessor, Biddle Memorial Institute, played in the first Black college football game, defeating Livingstone College 5-0. This tradition lives on in the annual Heritage Classic—a symbol of the deep-rooted heritage these schools bring to the field. 🏆 Winston-Salem State's Stronghold: Known as a powerhouse in the CIAA, Winston-Salem State has faced setbacks this season but is determined to regain its footing with a win on Saturday. With two losses to North Carolina A&T and Virginia Union, a victory would be crucial to re-entering the CIAA championship conversation. 📊 Beyond the Field: Our latest report goes beyond stats, delving into the historical significance and economic impact of both institutions on their communities. Discover how these universities contribute to the local economy, foster workforce development, and uphold a rich cultural heritage. Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy, resilience, and economic influence of these storied institutions. https://lnkd.in/e-ANzpW7

“Divisiveness often comes from disinformation.” While civic education helps people develop the knowledge base to participate in our democracy, when provided in schools it also hones critical thinking skills, helps with effective communication and debate, and confidence in speaking up. The California School Boards Association pulled together a plan for creating the next generation of leaders who both understand how democracy works and can hone a "collaborative, across-the-aisle dialogue" through civics education: https://shorturl.at/uMSZ4