Business

The Bigotry of No Expectations: Addressing Academic Underachievement

Academic achievement occurs through individual effort: one student after another rising above.

Published

3 years ago

March 10, 2021

Jeff Davidson

Joe Biden can’t remember what he said, and Kamala Harris has no clue as to how our nation’s schools should re-open. On the state and local level, as decisions are made about how and in what form we will educate the nation’s children, an age-old issue remains.

The underlying cause of income inequality and brewing civil unrest likely has less to do with media-inflamed coverage and much more to do with the problem that apparently no one wants to discuss: educational disparity.

The disparity year after year, decade after decade, in math competency, reading proficiency, test scores, honor roll status, and graduation rates, in virtually every U.S. school system, between African American students and other students is disturbing.

No Cause for Optimism

Any responsible American would be concerned. Here in the third decade of the third millennium, with a disheartening male African American high school dropout rate across the U.S., can anyone view the situation optimistically?

“It’s remarkable,” noted Eric Hanushek, who is a research associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research, as well as a senior fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution. Following his extensive analysis, he remarked, “I knew that the gap hadn’t been closing too much, but when I actually looked at the data I was myself surprised.”

When strenuous efforts to bridge the gap, in one community after another, do not bear fruit, invariably someone yells “foul,” as if some grand conspiracy is occurring and a magic wand, yet to be waved, could suddenly redress all. And, as if long-term, hard-working, dedicated teachers are not attempting their utmost for each of their students.

Not a Desired Path

Consider the school system in Chapel Hill-Carrboro, North Carolina. This locale, deemed, “The southern part of heaven,” by writers, is among the most progressive in the United States. The teachers and educators here have a vested interest in demonstrating that their school system, beyond all others, can succeed in the vital area of closing achievement gaps between whites and minorities.

Year in and year out, nevertheless, the gap remains. The Chapel Hill-Carrboro Board of Education is primed to try anything. Another in an endless line of supposed “fixes” was to eliminate the advanced math classes in the middle schools and to lump all non-pre-algebra students together, with similar plans to eliminate other advanced classes such as in language arts.

One cannot easily erect a sound building on quicksand, and you cannot expect to solve a decades-old problem by starting with a shaky foundation. Taking a lowest common denominator approach to developing school curriculum has never consistently worked, anywhere. It frustrates the students and dramatically increases a teacher’s burden – all such students must then be taught at individual learning speeds. Do you know any superhuman teachers? If so, could you afford them?

Address the Real Issues

Truly closing the academic gap between underachieving students and the rest of the student population requires addressing reality – airing the truth about the disparity – not resorting to politically “correct” psychobabble and curricula finagling for another ten years, and then another ten, and then another.

This disparity encompasses such issues as the number of hours the television is on in given households, family or parental encouragement for completing homework assignments, a regular workspace, and established hours for studying in a quiet environment, among other factors. Meanwhile Nigerians, Ghanians, Haitians, and other groups get into high seemingly right off the boat, and within one generation or less become a part of the U.S. economic mainstream.

Until solid analysis, exploration, and programs that address these issues are undertaken, no amount of wrangling with classes will prove to be the “winning formula.” School boards, moreover, will have zero chance of effectively addressing the continuing problem of poor academic performance among student groups.

Detective Sherlock Holmes, in Arthur Conan Doyle’s story The Sign of Four, says, “… When you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.” The schools in U.S. communities routinely exhaust talented teachers with a task that cannot be solved by them, nor is it theirs to solve.

Serious Students, Eager to Learn

Satisfactory academic achievement, however improbable to those who wish to pretend otherwise, occurs through individual effort: one boy and one girl after another rising above and cracking the books, then coming to class as a serious student, eager to learn, and primed to excel.

Such achievement is never likely to occur any other way. Otherwise, expect that income inequality and civil unrest will continue for decades into the 21^st century.

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Jeff Davidson

Jeff Davidson is the world's only holder of the title "The Work-Life Balance Expert®" as awarded by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. He is the premier thought leader on work-life balance, integration, and harmony. Jeff speaks to organizations that seek to enhance their overall productivity by improving the effectiveness of their people. He is the author of Breathing Space, Simpler Living, Dial it Down, and Everyday Project Management. Visit www.BreathingSpace.com for more information on Jeff's keynote speeches and seminars, including: Managing the Pace with Grace® * Achieving Work-Life Balance™ * Managing Information and Communication Overload®

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Business

Dinesh D’Souza Launching Conservative Business Network to Defund the Left

Why give your money to people who hate you? That’s like tipping your executioner.

Published

3 weeks ago

November 13, 2023

News Staff

Are you a conservative business person? Then check out the Red Referral Network and partner with Dinesh D’Souza by clicking the banner below:

For years, conservative icon Dinesh D’Souza has told his followers that we need to create “parallel economies” and stop funding the left. It’s true, right? Why give your money to people who hate you? That’s like tipping your executioner.

It is easy to boycott large companies like Nike, Target and Anhauser-Busch, but what about all of the small businesses and companies who take the profits you give them and fund leftist politicians? Think about it, you spend $30,000 on a new roof and your liberal roofer donates $3000 to leftists politicians and they stand in the public square and call you a racist, homophobic, sexist, transphobic insurrectionist! That make NO sense at all.

That’s about to end once and for all. It is time to cut off ALL leftwing businesses from our money. Introducing the Red Referral Network (RRN).

Dinesh has partnered with Motivational Speaker’s Hall of Fame Member Chris Widener to launch an exclusive business network for conservatives in business. There are three primary reasons to join the RRN:

1. Refer business and be referred business by fellow local conservatives. Don’t refer to lefties anymore – refer to those who share your values and beliefs.

2. Get weekly support and encouragement from other conservatives.

3. Get exclusive content each and every week from Dinesh D’Sousa made just for RRN members.

Registration is free and you can find out more about the Red Referral Network by clicking here.

Top Ten Reasons to Join a Networking Group:

Are you a conservative business person? Then check out the Red Referral Network and partner with Dinesh D’Souza by clicking the banner below:

Participating in a business referral network can offer numerous benefits for business professionals. Here are ten reasons why joining such a network can be advantageous:

Lead Generation: Business referral networks provide a structured environment for exchanging leads and referrals. Members can refer potential clients and customers to one another, fostering new business opportunities.

Increased Visibility: Being part of a referral network enhances your visibility within the local business community. As you actively engage and contribute, your business becomes more recognizable, leading to increased brand awareness.

Building Relationships: Networking is all about building relationships. Joining a referral network allows you to connect with like-minded professionals, fostering relationships that can lead to long-term business partnerships and collaborations.

Trust and Credibility: Referrals from trusted sources carry a higher level of credibility. Being a part of a referral network implies a level of trust among members, making the referrals more reliable and effective.

Diverse Skill Sets: Business referral networks often comprise professionals from various industries and backgrounds. This diversity can be advantageous, as it provides access to a wide range of skills, expertise, and perspectives that can benefit your business.

Professional Development: Engaging with other professionals in a referral network provides opportunities for continuous learning and professional development. You can gain insights into industry trends, best practices, and new technologies.

Resource Sharing: Members of a referral network can share resources, such as tools, software, or even office space. This can lead to cost savings and operational efficiencies for all involved.

Positive Influence: Surrounding yourself with motivated and successful individuals can have a positive impact on your own mindset and business strategies. A referral network can serve as a source of inspiration and motivation.

Feedback and Advice: Business referral networks offer a supportive environment where members can seek feedback and advice from experienced professionals. This can be invaluable for overcoming challenges and making informed business decisions.

Community Involvement: Many referral networks are actively involved in community events and charitable activities. Joining such a network allows you to contribute to the community while also enhancing your business’s social responsibility image.

Remember, the success of a business referral network depends on active participation and genuine efforts to contribute to the network. Building relationships and providing value to others are key principles for maximizing the benefits of such networks.

Are you a conservative business person? Then check out the Red Referral Network and partner with Dinesh D’Souza by clicking the banner below:

Business

Why Conservative Capitalists Excel in Business

Published

2 months ago

October 13, 2023

Chris Widener

The world of business is a dynamic and complex arena where success depends on a combination of factors, including strategy, innovation, hard work, and adaptability. While various ideologies shape the landscape of entrepreneurship, conservative capitalists often stand out as exceptionally proficient in the business world. This article explores why conservative capitalists are often more successful in business and highlights the key principles and practices that contribute to their achievements.

I. Strong Embrace of Free Market Principles

Adam Smith’s “invisible hand” concept: Conservative capitalists firmly believe in the power of a free-market economy, as espoused by the renowned economist Adam Smith. They understand that when individuals are allowed to pursue their self-interest, the overall economy benefits. This principle guides their business decisions, allowing them to capitalize on market forces and competition.

Efficient resource allocation: Conservative capitalists prioritize efficiency in resource allocation, seeking to maximize their assets and investments. This approach enables them to minimize waste, reduce costs, and enhance their competitiveness.

II. Emphasis on Personal Responsibility

Accountability: One of the hallmarks of conservative capitalists is their unwavering commitment to personal responsibility. They believe that individuals, not the government, are responsible for their own success and failures. This mindset encourages prudent decision-making and risk management in business endeavors.

Risk-taking with caution: Conservative capitalists are not averse to taking risks, but they do so cautiously. They thoroughly analyze potential opportunities and pitfalls, ensuring that each risk is calculated and based on sound judgment. This approach minimizes reckless decisions and increases the likelihood of positive outcomes.

III. Limited Government Intervention

Minimal regulatory burden: Conservative capitalists favor minimal government intervention in business affairs. They argue that excessive regulations can stifle innovation and economic growth. By advocating for less government involvement, they create an environment where businesses can thrive and prosper.

Lower taxes: Reduced taxation is a key principle for conservative capitalists. Lower taxes leave more capital in the hands of businesses, enabling them to invest in growth, create jobs, and contribute to economic prosperity.

IV. A Long-term Perspective

Sustainability and stability: Conservative capitalists take a long-term view of their businesses. They prioritize sustainability and stability over short-term gains. This approach allows them to weather economic downturns and build enduring enterprises.

Legacy building: Many conservative capitalists view their businesses as a legacy to be passed down to future generations. This motivates them to make prudent decisions that ensure the longevity and success of their enterprises.

V. Embrace of Traditional Values

Ethical leadership: Conservative capitalists often adhere to strong ethical values in their business practices. This commitment to ethical leadership fosters trust among customers, employees, and partners, which is essential for long-term success.

Respect for traditional institutions: Traditional values, such as family, community, and faith, are highly regarded by conservative capitalists. These values often drive their business decisions, emphasizing the importance of personal relationships and community involvement.

VI. Adaptability and Innovation

Embracing change selectively: While conservative capitalists maintain traditional values, they are not resistant to change. They recognize the importance of adapting to evolving market conditions and technological advancements while staying true to their core principles.

Pragmatic innovation: Innovation is a cornerstone of business success, and conservative capitalists understand this. They invest in research and development and embrace technological advancements when they align with their business goals.

VII. Focus on Frugality

Efficient spending: Conservative capitalists are known for their frugality and conservative financial management. They scrutinize expenses, avoid unnecessary overhead, and prioritize cost-cutting measures, which ultimately leads to higher profitability.

Debt aversion: They tend to be cautious about accumulating debt, preferring to build their businesses on a solid financial foundation. This strategy reduces financial risk and ensures the sustainability of their enterprises.

Conclusion

Conservative capitalists have a strong track record of excelling in the business world due to their adherence to key principles and practices that promote success. Their commitment to free market principles, personal responsibility, limited government intervention, long-term planning, and ethical values sets them apart as formidable entrepreneurs. While every ideology has its merits and drawbacks, the conservative capitalist approach to business has consistently proven effective in achieving profitability, stability, and sustainability.