My two sisters, my three brothers and I internalized our parents' introduction and maintenance to using quotations to maintain each other's attention. In rural Alabama, my parents purchased “The Montgomery Advertiser"' the largest newspaper in the state. This was intentional by my parents, Jim and Margaret. Moreover, nightly, my sisters and brothers and I were required to read to each other and be prepared to explain to one of our parents what we read. To each other, we also (out loud and silently) listened together to the radio to become knowledgeable about civil rights events. Our attendance at local and statewide academic events, became, for my sisters and brothers, and me, “happening in Alabama and other southern states resulting in “family talk time”. Thus, school staff’s expectations were always excellent and opened to discussion. 

Reading, writing and talking with my parents and sibling resulted in my academic achievements, as well as, my participation in civil rights activities through-out my adulthood.  I have consciously taken out membership in civil rights groups, religious groups, and other gatherings to express my commitment to equity.

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As a former high school teacher, middle school principal, college scholar, superintendent and author, I continue to encourage adults and students to be inclusive and support diversity in all theories endeavors. The books that I have written are guides for creating positive learning environments that provide equity for all students and staff; behavior modification and problem solving techniques for adolescents; and, inclusion strategies for highlighting the contributions of women and racial and ethnic minorities.