When I tell people that I am an activist for prison reform, an ally to those connected to the corrections system, the reactions differ wildly. Many are based on their on histories – why would I support want to support people, make their lives better, when they have ruined or even ended other peoples’? Others … More Mission Statement for Corrections
My mom always disagreed when I claimed that I was an introvert, and moving to a new city has certainly brought that part of my identity into question. As I’m on my own for good chunks of time, I’ve had to navigate wanting to stay in the comfort of my apartment with my absolute need … More A Nervous Extrovert’s Reflection on Moving to a New City
Everyone who knows me knows that the reason I am a teacher is because of my attachment to fictional characters, especially fictional depictions of teachers. I watched and read The Little House on the Prairie series growing up, same with Anne of Green Gables. Their influence and what I told my high school counselor was … More The Future of Education is Me!
It’s amazing how much can happen in just 14 days. It would be too long and boring to list everything, but I have a new home! Four days ago, Louisville, KY welcomed my fiance Henry and me into its warm and sticky embrace. I’m nervous because it’s only May and already over 90 degrees in … More A Life Update: New Home!
In the month of April, each weekend is taken up by a conference or workshop of some kind. That amount of travel, networking, and frankly, smiling, can be exceptionally draining, especially when approached with a negative frame of mind. But when eagerly anticipated, like I did for this weekend in South Bend, Indiana, they can … More Conferences: A Researcher’s Happy Place
A month ago, the Norman Miller Center for Peace, Justice, and Public Understanding hosted a conference called “Invigorating Democracy” tied to our celebration of Harry Boyte – the winner of the Ambassador of Peace award. The weekend was a flurry of people and ideas about how to bring public work back into focus. There were … More Reflections on Meaningful Work
In Part One, I discuss my initial reactions to the Parkland, Florida shooting. I touch on how teachers are prepped for active shooting scenarios. In Part Two, I discuss how teachers can be “on the first line of defense” without stepping between students and bullets. I recommend reading about restorative justice in schools. In this … More Skills of a Teacher in 2018 – Part Three
In Part 1, I worked my way through understanding the violence in Parkland, Florida, how children and young adults are working on a national strategy to combat gun violence in schools, and my personal experience with preparing for this part of my job description. If you haven’t read that one yet, I would encourage you … More Skills of a Teacher in 2018 – Part 2
Last week, we saw the world glance at a CNN notification on their phone: a new school shooting. 17 this time. Suspect was “deeply troubled.” The conversation turned towards the usual: thoughts and prayers. Mental health. Not the time. Let them grieve. Not the time. When is the time to talk? The amazing shift, after … More Skills of a Teacher in 2018 – Part One
Throughout my study of Peace and Justice, I have taken Introduction to Peace and Justice Studies, Social Inequalities, Social Change and Political Action (abroad), Feminist Theology, Bioethics (currently), and Capstone to Peace and Justice Studies. In addition to my coursework, I have worked with the Interfaith Youth Core, worked as a Community Organizer at the … More How My Mind Has Changed
Mary M. McConnaha 