Blog

Mr. Don’s Writing Seminar Returns!

The students eagerly anticipated the return of Mr. Don’s weekly Creative Writing seminar.  For nearly 20 years, Don Riesett has worked his magic encouraging students to think and dive deeply into themselves and then produce a writing.  The creativity and diversity in approaches by the students is then shared as students read and share their work with the class. The prompts and topics vary each week and can be wildly humorous or very deep and personal.

Mr. Don then edits the writings and then meets with each student individually each week to discuss their work. In the tradition of the school, Mr. Don is both a teacher and a mentor.  We are so fortunate to have his considerable talent and insights again this year.  Thank you Mr. Don!

The New School Year Begins!

The new school year is underway! We are in our 44th year as a school and 49th year as an organization serving young people. We were happy to see the students continuing their education this year and welcomed the new students.  The students all showed up full of energy and potential. It was particularly heartwarming to see the continuing students showing the new students around and sharing their stories about how to be successful at TCS.  Stay tuned and buckle up for another great year!

Conversation with Imani Yasin

Mentor, musician and entrepreneur Imani Yasin was our guest for a Conversation.  Imani has been associated with the school for many years and has come to know many of the students.  She was first  introduced to us through her work as a mentor with Sisters Circle who encouraged their students to enroll in our school. In addition to Imani’s regular visits to the school, she has done several Conversations over the years. This Conversation was wide ranging but included the new direction that Imani has taken in setting up a management and consulting business.

This was an inspiring and enjoyable Conversation and we are thankful for having Imani as part of our community.

Conversation with Paul Coates

Black Classic Press Founder and Publisher Paul Coates was in for a Conversation with the students today.  Paul is a long time supporter, former Advisory Board member and frequent visitor of the school.  He spoke about his life and work and his life long commitment to his community and changing the world.  Paul shared how we each need to find our way to make a positive mark on  society.  Much of Paul’s work has centered around education through books.  He said, “Books change people and people change the world.”

Paul commented on the diversity among our students and how each displayed an understanding and care about issues facing us from immigration to concern about conflict and wars to loss of support for medical and scientific research and aid for those in need. He encouraged them to continue to do their best in their studies and to be the resistance to negative forces in our society.

It is always an inspirational boost when Paul visits with students at the school and this was no exception. We are deeply thankful for the example of his life and his steadfast support for our school.