By Shaunne McKinley.
America has spoken again and I have to ask, “What’s going on?”
As I reflect on the current divisiveness of America, my mind goes back to 2016 and the rhetoric of racism, homophobia, misogynism and overall disrespect. Unfortunately, that is the same rhetoric in 2024. Now is not the time to sit back and watch, because it is important to speak up against the possible dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education, reduction of funding for special education and gifted education programs, and the elimination of rights for women, people of color and the LGBTQIA communities. As a Black woman, parent and educator, I will continue to stand up for my rights and moral beliefs.
Our gifted children are critical thinkers and emotionally sensitive individuals, so I encourage you to listen and allow them to express their feelings.
Answer questions honestly, while explaining that adults sometimes make mistakes with their words and actions.
Remind your child that kindness matters and that no person is more superior than another (we should all be treated equally and fairly).
Teach your child to respect others no matter their race, gender or religion.
Teach your child that sometimes they may lose a debate or a game and they may not get what they want all the time, but it will still be okay.
Congratulate the other child and pledge to do better next time.
Most importantly, let them know how much you love and support them no matter what goes on in the world around them. As adults, we need to prepare our children to be future difference makers with the goal of a better America.
SENG is committed to the support and empowerment of all members of the gifted and talented community intellectually, emotionally, physically, socially and spiritually.As we prepare for the holiday season, remember to show kindness and gratitude to others, and let us unite and be the example for the future of a great America!
“ Echoes of grace in acts so small,
Kindness, a bridge over any wall.
In its reach, a bond so strong,
Creating a place where we all belong.”
By Anonymous
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Shaunne McKinley is a member of the SENG Board of Directors and currently a Gifted Specialist in the Deer Valley School District in Phoenix, Arizona. She has been in education for 20 years. Shaunne teaches reading, math and social-emotional lessons to gifted learners. She is a member of her campus leadership team and the advisor for the National Elementary Honor Society. Shaunne has also been a member of the district Gifted leadership team for 5 years. Shaunne is an active member in her church community, and is an advocate for promoting gifted information and awareness to families. She is married to a Marine Corps veteran and has two adult sons. Her youngest son was identified as a gifted learner in second grade, which began her journey to learning more about giftedness. Shaunne is a trained SENG Community Group facilitator and a member of the Arizona Association for Gifted and Talented. She is a graduate of Arizona State University.