Troy Talk
Poverty, the Numbers and the Real Deal
The Numbers
I told a friend that my next blog was going to be about poverty in America. He blinked rapidly in succession. “Big topic,” he said.
“Important topic,” I replied.
But he had a point. The immensity of the poverty issue continues to be nothing short of stunning. I confirmed this belief when I learned about the numbers.
Getting More Value for Your Health Care Dollar
It's YOUR Money After All!
Can you think of any subject where there is unanimous agreement that results in constant grousing other than on the subject of property taxes? Everyone complains, and I’m sure that you’ve never heard your neighbor say, “My property taxes are too low.”
But New Jersey residents, in particular, have solid footing for their complaints. We have the highest average property taxes in the nation, according to the Tax Foundation and the Fiscal Times. And, our residents have faced the gradual and tenacious rise of taxes for years. The average statewide property tax rose from $8,161 in 2014 to its highest level in New Jersey history at $8,353 in 2015.
The Company We Keep
Most of us recall the frequent admonition of our parents from when we were younger: Don’t hang out with the wrong crowd. They had a basic fear. Associating with the wrong crowd could unduly influence our moral and personal code in a negative fashion. And when we did dabble in the wrong crowd, in the back of our brain, we knew in this instance that our parents were right.
Winning Big After A “Loss”
So you want to be a educator?
How would you feel about overseeing the teaching of kids, 70 percent of whom live below the poverty line? What would you do if about 10 percent of your students were homeless? Any thoughts about spending your own money to help these students buy all those extras? You know things like deodorant, toothpaste and other hygiene products that many of us take for granted?
Probably not an appealing proposition and no one would blame you if you took a pass. But, thousands of people accept that challenge every day. And, I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with them to try and make education more equitable and rewarding for the children of our great state. Beverly School District Superintendent Elizabeth “Liz” Giacobbe, is someone who lives and embraces that challenge every day. And, from my perspective truly embodies what an educational leader is all about.
Politics & Religion: Talking About It Isn’t Taboo
We know the popular advice. Don’t talk about politics and religion during a dinner party because to do so would only result in a social misstep or something worse. Many consider it a volatile social cocktail.
That is precisely why we shouldn’t be afraid to mix the two in any discussion. And by refraining from a discussion, in a fair-minded and reasonable manner, we only confirm a misguided taboo.