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The teacher shortage has been expanding more each year. In South Carolina, there are more than 1,400 unfilled jobs in teaching state-wide this year.

Why do we continue struggling to keep teachers? There are multiple reasons, but to simply explain, teachers are NOT treated fairly and we need to change that.

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COLUMBIA, S.C.. (WRDW/WAGT) - Big, bold ideas.

Incoming State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver told a state task force that's what's going to bring in more teachers.

The teacher shortage in South Carolina is at an all-time high - more than 1,400 unfilled jobs statewide at the beginning of the school year.

Post-pandemic, Weaver says the teacher shortage is more pressing than ever.

"The only way we are going to ameliorate that for our students is if we figure out how to support a high-quality teacher, well-paid teacher in every classroom in this state," Weaver said.

As this task force studies South Carolina's teacher shortage - holding its second meeting Tuesday in Columbia - Weaver encouraged them to focus on two areas.

The first is the power of mentorships and apprenticeships in teacher recruitment and retention - and the second is the role of school leaders, like principals, in this work.

"Please as you do your work, think big. Think bold. The way that we have been preparing teachers, the way that we have structured our system may have worked 100 years ago, but it's not sufficient for the realities of today," Weaver said.

The task force will make its formal recommendations to lawmakers and the governor by May.

The chair of the state Senate Education Committee says they'll be closely watching those recommendations to shape potential legislation.

"If we just keep doing what we're doing and hopefully it gets better or just throw a little more money at it, it's not going to work. It hasn't worked," Sen Greg Hembree said. "We've increased the salary by 33% in five years, and we've had more teachers leave."

Task force members include current teachers, school administrators and lawmakers.

Its chair - former state Superintendent Barbara Nielsen - says she's confident Weaver will work *with them to tackle this issue.

"We have everybody in the same room, talking with each other," Nielsen.

Weaver will be sworn in as state superintendent a week from Wednesday.

She told the task force she'll be in "listen and learn mode" for the start of her tenure - especially as she awaits their recommendations to address the shortage.

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Tackling South Carolina's teacher retention problem

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COLUMBIA, S.C.. (WRDW/WAGT) - Big, bold ideas. Incoming State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver told a state task force that's what's going to bring in more teachers. The teacher shortage in South Carolina is at an all-time high - more than 1,400 unfilled jobs statewide at the beginning of the school year.

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Standardized testing are not as beneficial as everybody thinks that they are. I chose this topic because I always struggled with these types of tests in high school and believe that they do not define a person. I hope to learn more about the negative effects and how we can change this in the future.

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https://www.law.georgetown.edu/gender-journal/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2022/04/The-Dangerous-Consequences-of-FLs-Bill-on-LGBTQ-Youth-M.-Johnson.pdf
I chose this topic because it is very important to me as a future teacher. I believe that knowledge should not be limited and that students going through this need a strong support system.

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I chose suicide prevention because I struggled with serious depression in high school and college. I also lost a family member to suicide in November of 2019. The issue is that a lot of people do not take mental health seriously.

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Understanding suicide

The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 1 million people die each year from suicide. What drives so many individuals to take their own lives? To those who are not in the grips of suicidal depression and despair, it's difficult to understand what drives so many individuals to take their own lives. But a suicidal person is in so much pain that they can see no other option.

Suicide is a desperate attempt to escape suffering that has become unbearable. Blinded by feelings of self-loathing, hopelessness, and isolation, a suicidal person can't see any way of finding relief except through death. But despite their desire for the pain to stop, most suicidal people are deeply conflicted about ending their own lives. They wish there was an alternative to suicide, but they just can't see one.

Common misconceptions about suicide

Myth: People who talk about suicide won't really do it.

Fact: Almost everyone who attempts suicide has given some clue or warning. Don't ignore even indirect references to death or suicide. Statements like "You'll be sorry when I'm gone," "I can't see any way out,"-no matter how casually or jokingly said-may indicate serious suicidal feelings.

Myth: Anyone who tries to kill themselves must be crazy.

Fact: Most suicidal people are not psychotic or insane. They are upset, grief-stricken, depressed, or despairing, but extreme distress and emotional pain are not necessarily signs of mental illness.

Myth: If someone is determined to kill themselves, nothing is going to stop them.

Fact: Even a very severely depressed person has mixed feelings about death, fluctuating between wanting to live and wanting to die. Rather than wanting death, they just want the pain to stop-and the impulse to end their life does not last forever.

Myth: People who die by suicide are people who were unwilling to seek help.

Fact: Many people try to get help before attempting suicide. In fact, studies indicate that more than 50 percent of suicide victims had sought medical help in the six months prior to their deaths.

Myth: Talking about suicide may give someone the idea.

Fact: You don't give someone suicidal ideas by talking about suicide. Rather, the opposite is true. Talking openly and honestly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can help save a life.

Warning signs of suicide

Most suicidal individuals give warning signs or signals of their intentions. The best way to prevent suicide is to recognize these warning signs and know how to respond if you spot them. If you believe that a friend or family member is suicidal, you can play a role in suicide prevention by pointing out the alternatives, showing that you care, and getting a doctor or psychologist involved.

Major warning signs for suicide include talking about killing or harming oneself, talking or writing a lot about death or dying, and seeking out things that could be used in a suicide attempt, such as weapons and drugs. These signals are even more dangerous if the person has a mood disorder such as depression or bipolar disorder, suffers from alcohol dependence, has previously attempted suicide, or has a family history of suicide.

A more subtle, but equally dangerous, warning sign of suicide is hopelessness. Studies have found that hopelessness is a strong predictor of suicide. People who feel hopeless may talk about "unbearable" feelings, predict a bleak future, and state that they have nothing to look forward to.

Other warning signs that point to a suicidal mind frame include dramatic mood swings or sudden personality changes, such as switching from outgoing to withdrawn or from well-behaved to rebellious. A suicidal person may also lose interest in day-to-day activities, neglect their appearance, or show big changes in their eating or sleeping habits.

Suicide warning signs include:

Talking about suicide - Any talk about suicide, dying, or self-harm, such as "I wish I hadn't been born," "If I see you again..." and "I'd be better off dead."

Seeking out lethal means - Seeking access to guns, pills, knives, or other objects that could be used in a suicide attempt.

Preoccupation with death - Unusual focus on death, dying, or violence. Writing poems or stories about death.

No hope for the future - Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and being trapped ("There's no way out"). Belief that things will never get better or change.

Self-loathing, self-hatred - Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, shame, and self-hatred. Feeling like a burden ("Everyone would be better off without me").

Getting affairs in order - Making out a will. Giving away prized possessions. Making arrangements for family members.

Saying goodbye - Unusual or unexpected visits or calls to family and friends. Saying goodbye to people as if they won't be seen again.

Withdrawing from others - Withdrawing from friends and family. Increasing social isolation. Desire to be left alone.

Self-destructive behavior - Increased alcohol or drug use, reckless driving, unsafe sex. Taking unnecessary risks as if they have a "death wish."

Sudden sense of calm - A sudden sense of calm and happiness after being extremely depressed can mean that the person has made a decision to attempt suicide.

Suicide prevention tip 1: Speak up if you're worried

If you spot the warning signs of suicide in someone you care about, you may wonder if it's a good idea to say anything. What if you're wrong? What if the person gets angry? In such situations, it's natural to feel uncomfortable or afraid. But anyone who talks about suicide or shows other warning signs needs immediate help-the sooner the better.

Talking to a friend or family member about their suicidal thoughts and feelings can be extremely difficult for anyone. But if you're unsure whether someone is suicidal, the best way to find out is to ask. You can't make a person suicidal by showing that you care. In fact, giving a suicidal person the opportunity to express their feelings can provide relief from loneliness and pent-up negative feelings, and may prevent a suicide attempt.
Ways to start a conversation about suicide:
"I have been feeling concerned about you lately."

"Recently, I've noticed some differences in you and wondered how you are doing."

"I wanted to check in with you because you haven't seemed yourself lately."
Questions you can ask:
"When did you begin feeling like this?"

"Did something happen to make you start feeling this way?"

"How can I best support you right now?"

"Have you thought about getting help?"
What you can say that helps:
"You are not alone in this. I'm here for you."

"You may not believe it now, but the way you're feeling will change."

"I may not be able to understand exactly how you feel, but I care about you and want to help."

"When you want to give up, tell yourself you will hold off for just one more day, hour, minute-whatever you can manage."

When talking to a suicidal person
DO:
Be yourself. Let the person know you care, that they are not alone. Finding the right words are not nearly as important as showing your concern.

Listen. Let your friend or loved one vent and unload their feelings. No matter how negative the conversation seems, the fact that it is taking place is a positive sign.

Be sympathetic and non-judgmental. The suicidal person is doing the right thing by talking about their feelings, no matter how difficult it may be to hear.

Offer hope. Reassure your loved one that help is available and that the suicidal feelings are temporary. Let the person know that their life is important to you.

Take the person seriously. If a suicidal person says things like, "I'm so depressed, I can't go on," ask if they're having thoughts of suicide. You're allowing them to share their pain with you, not putting ideas in their head.
BUT DON'T:
Argue with the suicidal person. Avoid saying things like: "You have so much to live for," "Your suicide will hurt your family," or "Just snap out of it."

Act shocked, lecture on the value of life, or argue that suicide is wrong.

Promise confidentiality or be sworn to secrecy. A life is at stake and you may need to speak to a mental health professional in order to keep the suicidal person safe. If you promise to keep your discussions secret, you may have to break your word.

Offer ways to fix your loved one's problems, give advice, or make them feel like they have to justify their suicidal feelings. It is not about how bad the problem is, but how badly it's hurting your friend or loved one.

Blame yourself. You can't "fix" someone else's depression. Your friend or loved one's happiness, or lack thereof, is not your responsibility.

Tip 2: Respond quickly in a crisis

If a friend or family member tells you that they're thinking about death or suicide, it's important to evaluate the immediate danger the person is in. Those at the highest risk for committing suicide in the near future have a specific suicide PLAN, the MEANS to carry out the plan, a TIME SET for doing it, and an INTENTION to do it.

The following questions can help you assess the immediate risk for suicide:

Do you have a suicide plan? (PLAN)

Do you have what you need to carry out your plan (pills, gun, etc.)? (MEANS)

Do you know when you would do it? (TIME SET)

Do you intend to take your own life? (INTENTION)

Level of suicide risk

Low. Some suicidal thought. No suicide plan. The person says they won't attempt suicide.

Moderate. Suicidal thoughts. Vague plan that isn't very lethal. Says they won't attempt suicide.

High. Suicidal thoughts. Specific plan that is highly lethal. Says they won't attempt suicide.

Severe. Suicidal thoughts. Specific plan that is highly lethal. The person says they will attempt suicide.

If a suicide attempt seems imminent, call a local crisis center, phone your country's emergency services number (911 in the U.S.), or take the person to an emergency room. Remove guns, drugs, knives, and other potentially lethal objects from the vicinity but do not, under any circumstances, leave a suicidal person alone.

Tip 3: Offer help and support

If a friend or family member is suicidal, the best way to help is by offering an empathetic, listening ear. Let your loved one know that they're not alone and that you care. Don't take responsibility, however, for healing your loved one. You can offer support, but you can't make a suicidal person get better. They have to make a personal commitment to recovery.

It takes a lot of courage to help someone who is suicidal. Witnessing a loved one dealing with thoughts about ending their own life can stir up many difficult emotions. As you're helping a suicidal person, don't forget to take care of yourself. Find someone that you trust-a friend, family member, clergyman, or counselor-to talk to about your feelings and get support of your own.

To help a suicidal person:

Get professional help. Do everything in your power to get a suicidal person the help they need. Call a crisis line for advice and referrals. Encourage the person to see a mental health professional, help locate a treatment facility, or take them to a doctor's appointment.

Follow-up on treatment. If the doctor prescribes medication, make sure your friend or loved one takes it as directed. Be aware of possible side effects and be sure to notify the physician if the person seems to be getting worse. It often takes time and persistence to find the medication or therapy that's right for a particular person.

Be proactive. Those contemplating suicide often don't believe they can be helped, so you may have to be more proactive at offering assistance. Saying, "Call me if you need anything" is too vague. Don't wait for the person to call you or even to return your calls. Drop by, call again, invite the person out.

Encourage positive lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, plenty of sleep, and getting out in the sun or into nature for at least 30 minutes each day. Exercise is also extremely important as it releases endorphins, relieves stress, and promotes emotional well-being.

Make a safety plan. Help the person develop a set of steps they promise to follow during a suicidal crisis. It should identify any triggers that may lead to a suicidal crisis, such as an anniversary of a loss, alcohol, or stress from relationships. Also include contact numbers for the person's doctor or therapist, as well as friends and family members who will help in an emergency.

Remove potential means of suicide, such as pills, knives, razors, or firearms. If the person is likely to take an overdose, keep medications locked away or give them out only as the person needs them.

Continue your support over the long haul. Even after the immediate suicidal crisis has passed, stay in touch with the person, periodically checking in or dropping by. Your support is vital to ensure your friend or loved one remains on the recovery track.

Risk factors for suicide

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, at least 90 percent of all people who die by suicide suffer from one or more mental disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or alcoholism.

Depression in particular plays a large role in suicide. The difficulty that suicidal people have imagining a solution to their suffering is due in part to the distorted thinking caused by depression.

Common suicide risk factors include:

Mental illness, alcoholism or drug abuse.

Previous suicide attempts, family history of suicide, or history of trauma or abuse.

Terminal illness or chronic pain, a recent loss or stressful life event.

Social isolation and loneliness.

Antidepressants and suicide

For some, depression medication causes an increase-rather than a decrease-in depression and suicidal thoughts and feelings. Because of this risk, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises that anyone taking antidepressants should be watched for increases in suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Monitoring is especially important if this is the person's first time on depression medication or if the dose has recently been changed. The risk of suicide is the greatest during the first two months of antidepressant treatment.

Suicide in teens and older adults

In addition to the general risk factors for suicide, both teenagers and older adults are at a higher risk of suicide.

Suicide in teens

Teenage suicide is a serious and growing problem. The teenage years can be emotionally turbulent and stressful. Teenagers face pressures to succeed and fit in. They may struggle with self-esteem issues, self-doubt, and feelings of alienation. For some, this leads to suicide.

Depression is also a major risk factor for teen suicide.

Other risk factors for teenage suicide include:

Childhood abuse.

Recent traumatic event.

Lack of a support network.

Availability of a gun.

Hostile social or school environment.

Exposure to other teen suicides.

Warning signs in teens

Additional warning signs that a teen may be considering suicide:

Change in eating and sleeping habits.

Withdrawal from friends, family, and regular activities.

Violent or rebellious behavior, bullying, running away.

Drug and alcohol use.

Unusual neglect of personal appearance.

Persistent boredom, difficulty concentrating, or a decline in the quality of schoolwork.

Frequent complaints about physical symptoms, such as stomach pains, headaches, or tiredness.

Rejecting praise or rewards.

Suicide in the elderly

The highest suicide rates of any age group occur among persons aged 65 years and older. One contributing factor is depression in the elderly that is undiagnosed and untreated.

Other risk factors for suicide in the elderly include:

Warning signs in older adults

Additional warning signs that an elderly person may be contemplating suicide:

Reading about death and suicide.

Changes in sleep patterns.

Increased consumption of alcohol or prescription drugs.

Self-neglect or failing to follow medical orders.

Stockpiling medications or taking a sudden interest in firearms.

Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities, bidding elaborate farewells, or hurrying to revise a will.

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Suicide prevention starts with recognizing the warning signs and taking them seriously. Learn what you can do.

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I hope to be able to learn more about what I as a teacher can do to prevent school shootings. This is an important topic to discuss considering how prevalent violence within the school system has become.

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Comprehensive strategies are required for preventing school shootings. Communities can reduce the risk of these complex events with programs and policies.

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There is a serious problem with the banning of teaching critical race theory within public schools and higher education in the South - preventing students from gaining a well-rounded education. This pushback has been occurring in Florida from Gov. DeSantis, but also in South Carolina.
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/01/us/college-board-advanced-placement-african-american-studies.html
https://www.chronicle.com/article/south-carolina-requests-colleges-dei-spending-following-florida-and-oklahoma
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/education/florida-gov-desantis-pushes-ban-on-diversity-programs-in-state-colleges

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The College Board Strips Down Its A.P. Curriculum for African American Studies (Published 2023)

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The official course looks different from a previous draft: No more critical race theory, and the study of contemporary topics — like Black Lives Matter — is optional.

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https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.theguardian.com/society/2023/jan/29/adderall-shortage-us-adhd-ritalin-drugs

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hen the last tablet of Ritalin rattled softly in the plastic vial, Faati knew that sound meant trouble. The last time, theyhad run out of ADHD meds for three months and struggled to remember tasks or even tell time at the Washington state cafeteria where they worked. On the day they finally got a refill, they were fired for "performance reasons".

Erik, a 26-year-old Seattle grocery clerk, who also has attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, has been unable to get his medications filled for months now - and he's worried he'll lose the first full-time job he's ever had.

For people like Faati and Erik, ADHD medication is a prerequisite for basic functioning - and over the last year it's become dramatically harder for patients like them to access care. Last October, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a shortage of Adderall, one of the most common stimulant medications for ADHD.

In recent months, patients have reported problems filling nearly every type of ADHD medication. What's stranger is that no one seems to know why. Is it some kind of supply chain issue? A pandemic-era surge in demand? A government crackdown?

Official explanations have offered little clarity. The FDA's announcement mentioned "intermittent manufacturing delays" at Teva, the producer of the branded version of Adderall, but few other details. The American Society of Health Pharmacists reports shortages of multiple ADHD drugs but says manufacturers have given no explanation.

Meanwhile, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which controls the supply of the drugs, announced last month that it would not increase manufacturing quotas for 2023, despite the shortage - again, without providing a reason. One congresswoman, Abigail Spanberger, wrote to the DEA and FDA to demand an explanation last December, but Spanberger's staff told the Guardian she had yet to receive a response.

The situation has left patients in turmoil. Since the mid-2010s, adults have overtaken children in receiving prescriptions for ADHD drugs. Studies show stimulants offer dramatic benefits to ADHD patients, improving their performance at school and at work, and reducing their risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse and suicide. A 2017 analysis of millions of patient records even found that adults with ADHD taking stimulant medications were far less likely to get into a car crash.

But the drugs can also give a different kind of boost to people without ADHD. Studies have found prescription stimulants have little to no effect on the cognitive performance of adults without ADHD. What they do give other people is an elevated mood - a high. And like all things that get people high, they can be addictive. The medications' side-effects include insomnia, elevated heart rate and high blood pressure, but in larger doses they can cause panic attacks, psychosis and seizures.

In recent months, patients have reported problems filling nearly every type of ADHD medication. Photograph: JB Reed/Bloomberg News

That's why amphetamine and methylphenidate are Schedule II controlled substances in the US - accepted for medical use, but with "a high potential for abuse". The DEA controls their supply, under what it calls a "closed system of distribution". After the agency decides its annual production quotas, manufacturers and distributors must set limits on how much of the meds each pharmacy can buy. Pharmacies must guard the substances under lock and key, and fill out forms if they lose even a single pill. Doctors, of course, must screen their patients. Every link in this supply chain must also refuse and report any "suspicious orders" of unusual size, frequency or "deviating substantially from a normal pattern".

Violating any of the DEA's rules can mean big trouble: anything from civil penalties to criminal prosecution. It's a conservative system that's designed to keep just enough medication flowing to patients while minimizing the risk of illegal diversion, an especially high-stakes task during the opioid crisis. But for ADHD medication, the balance mostly worked - until the pandemic changed everything.

Studies show the pandemic has affected people with ADHD more severely than those without the condition. Several doctors and experts who spoke to the Guardian say they witnessed a surge in new ADHD patients during the pandemic, as people who had relied on the guardrails of a physical workplace or classroom realized they couldn't regulate themselves at home. And a growing awareness of the condition has inspired previously undiagnosed people to get tested - like Shauna, a California woman in her mid-20s who was diagnosed with ADHD two years ago as she fought to stay afloat in pharmacy school. "I think I always felt like this is what was going on, in the back of my head," she said. "But once it was confirmed, it just made a lot of sense."

Anna Brasile started homeschooling her partner's son during lockdown. She was familiar with ADHD - she had worked in a psychologist's office, and had two family members with the disorder - but it wasn't until she was teaching at home that she recognized the symptoms in her stepson. When he returned to fourth grade in person the next year, "he struggled a lot, and his grades started to dip, so we decided to get him formally evaluated".

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a chronic impairment that persists through a patient's lifetime and stimulant medication is the most common therapy. The treatment dates back to 1937, when a Rhode Island doctor named Charles Bradley gave benzedrine, an amphetamine-based stimulant, to schoolchildren with behavioral problems in an attempt to treat their headaches. He was stunned to discover a "spectacular improvement" in their classroom performance: many of them became calmer and showed a "definite 'drive' to accomplish as much as possible", he wrote in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

Bradley had stumbled upon what today's scientists and physicians understand as ADHD's basic neurological principle: the disorder is a dysregulation of dopamine. For ADHD patients, symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity and forgetfulness may be consequences of a brain desperately seeking out the dopamine it's not getting enough of. That's why using a stimulant to deliver the right amount of additional dopamine can help the brain calm down and make decisions more effectively.

Modern physicians recognize stimulants as "the No 1 evidence-based treatment for ADHD", says Dr Owen Muir, a Brooklyn-based psychiatrist who specializes in treating the disorder. "It's one of the most effective treatments in all of medicine, for any condition. These things work extremely well - once you get to the right dose for somebody, it's not subtle. Like, 'Wow, I can really focus now.'" The Guardian spoke to a dozen ADHD patients for this story and all agreed. "These meds are life-changing for us," Erik, the Seattle grocery clerk, said.

As the coronavirus spread in 2020, the US Department of Health and Human Services authorized an emergency suspension of the 2008 Ryan Haight Act, which had banned the prescription of controlled substances by telehealth providers without an in-person examination. That rule change enabled a wave of telemedicine companies to reach ADHD patients through convenient, mobile-friendly apps.

Shauna was one of the people who got a prescription for Adderall through an app - something that wasn't possible before the pandemic. She said it felt like "the new cultural norm".

Targeted ads for the telehealth providers Cerebral and Done. Photograph: Cerebral/Done

Many patients were especially drawn to Cerebral, a telemedicine startup that offered mental health counseling and medication for an introductory price of just $30 a month. Founded by the millennial Harvard Business School graduate Kyle Robertson in 2019 and flush with investor cash, Cerebral grew rapidly in 2020 in what Robertson described as a mission to improve access to mental health care and "save lives".

But ex-employees say Robertson was only focused on profit. He saw a golden opportunity to prescribe ADHD stimulants online, and Cerebral's pitch deck to investors contained a image of controlled substances next to the words "Now is the time to capture growth", the Wall Street Journal reported.

Ex-employees allege that Robertson, who has no medical background, was pushing his hired nurse practitioners to prescribe stimulants to as many 30 new patients a day, in online evaluations that lasted as little as 10 minutes.

The gambit worked. Word spread quickly about Cerebral, and by late 2021 it had served more than 200,000 patients, had signed the gymnast Simone Biles as "chief impact officer", and was valued at an eye-popping $4.8bn.

"We're not going to stop building and iterating until everybody has access to high-quality mental health care," Robertson declared. Rival startups like Done and Ahead were quick to join in. If you were an ADHD patient, there had never been an easier and cheaper time to get meds.

Then things fell apart. In March 2022, a group of former staff publicly accused Cerebral of fueling a new addiction crisis by pushing the drugs. Weeks later, the former Cerebral executive Matthew Truebe sued Robertson, alleging that the founder had "directed Cerebral employees find ways to prescribe stimulants to more ADHD patients to increase retention ... egregiously [putting] profits and growth before patient safety".

Regulators responded quickly: in May, federal investigators subpoenaed Cerebral as part of an investigation into "possible violations of the Controlled Substances Act". The Federal Trade Commission opened a civil case into whether the company used deceptive marketing practices.

Two years after it began, the explosion of online, on-demand ADHD prescriptions was over. Ahead announced it would close in April. Shortly after the investigations were announced, Cerebral said it would stop prescribing stimulants, and Robertson was forced out of the company. Days later, major pharmacies including CVS Health and Wal-Mart said they would no longer fill prescriptions for controlled substances from Cerebral and Done, and in July Wal-Mart began rejecting all telemedicine prescriptions for controlled substances from patients who had not made an in-person visit within two years, according to reports. In September, the Wall Street Journal reported that Done was also under investigation by the DEA. Last month, the DEA announced it was considering revoking the license of Truepill, Cerebral's preferred pharmacy, alleging that Truepill had "wrongfully filled thousands of prescriptions" for ADHD medications. Cerebral, Done, and Truepill have denied wrongdoing and have said they are cooperating with investigators. Robertson has also denied wrongdoing and called his firing "illegal". Simone Biles announced she was departing Cerebral in December.

Simone Biles announced she was leaving Cerebral in December. Photograph: Raquel Cunha/Reuters

The DEA declined to answer emailed questions, but the agency's thinking was evident in a letter it sent to drugmakers last summer, saying it was scrutinizing their production requests because of "the sheer volume of ADHD medications on the market coupled with aggressive marketing practices" from certain firms, according to a recent report from the Wall Street Journal. The letter said the DEA would ensure that "the manufacturing of controlled substances used to treat ADHD is driven by a legitimate need and not improperly driven purely by profit motive, pressure from marketing firms, or a desire to obtain more market share - all factors that led to an oversupply of opioids during the prescription opioid crisis."

Karla Palmer, a pharmaceutical industry lawyer who has reviewed the letter, says it's clear that Cerebral's growth-at-all-costs mentality prompted the agency to pump the brakes. Unlike the decades-long opioid crisis, "this is early in a cycle of what a crisis may become", Palmer says, and "the DEA is trying to get ahead of it". But the industry has grown anxious over the fallout. Palmer, who calls herself a telehealth proponent, says pharmaceutical companies have long sought a framework to allow controlled substances to be safely and legally prescribed online. "I just hope this doesn't ruin it. And I'm afraid it will."

Telehealth companies botched their attempt to expand access to ADHD medication. Now that the boom has fizzled, the shortage is starker than ever. Dr Henry Hasson, a New York-based pediatric neurologist who specializes in treating ADHD, says the current medication shortage is "by far the worst that's ever been. Almost all the meds are out of stock," even non-stimulants like guanfacine, a non-controlled ADHD medication that's also used to treat high blood pressure. It's become a routine for his patients and staff to call multiple pharmacies for every order: "Every once in a while you find maybe 10 pills here, or 10 pills there, but it's not easy."

Prescriptions for controlled substances can't be transferred, so Hasson has to write patients a new prescription every time another pharmacy is out of stock. Sometimes all that's left are brand-name drugs like Vyvanse that cost as much as $300 a month.

But as ADHD care gets even harder to access, it's marginalized people who are hit the hardest. Years of research have shown that non-male, non-white and poor children are under-diagnosed with ADHD, as their symptoms are more likely to be seen as misbehavior and punished. Even if they do get diagnosed, they're less likely to be able to find a doctor.

Despite ADHD's prevalence, the United States has surprisingly few physicians to treat it. "The dosage matters, the medication matters, the metabolism of that medication matters, the combination with other things matters," says Muir, the Brooklyn psychiatrist. Because ADHD commonly co-occurs with other conditions, like OCD, depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder, "you're not doing someone a huge favor if you only diagnose them with half of their problem. That's why there needs to be expertise, and there isn't."

Many doctors only get a few lectures on the disorder in their medical training, and nurse practitioners often less. The specialists most familiar with ADHD tend to be child and adolescent psychiatrists - but according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, there are fewer than 10 of them for every 100,000 young patients in America - "one of the most underserved medical specialties that there is," says Muir - and nearly half of them do not take insurance.

Now, wait times for ADHD specialists have stretched to as long as six months in some states, if patients can afford one. And those who don't have private health plans often struggle to get care at all.

Faati, who was diagnosed with ADHD in 2020 after qualifying for disability-based Medicare, felt hopeful after starting Ritalin: "I was able to rely on myself in a way that I didn't know that I could before then." But the treatment fell through last May, when they moved to Washington state and had to begin the diagnosis process all over again. This meant Faati had to wait months for a new prescription, during which their performance at work suffered and they eventually lost their job. When their medication was finally approved, their pharmacy was completely out of stock.

"Our government and corporate overlords are just hoarding their resources," they say. "It's madness to not allow us to at the very least do our job."

The DEA administrator, Anne Milgram, with the US attorney general, Merrick Garland, last year. Photograph: Shawn Thew/EPA

The crisis in ADHD care is not just about a shortage of pills. It's also a deficit of infrastructure. Even if stimulant shortages were resolved tomorrow, there might still not be enough specialists to properly prescribe them. That's a problem that can't just be solved overnight by an ambitious startup or an injection of investor cash. Imagine if treating ADHD were firefighting: "You can't just have 20,000 firetrucks and call it a success," Muir says. "I need to actually have better outcomes when it comes to fires - because otherwise, you burn the whole fucking world down."

The problem is there's still uncertainty over just how many fires there are. Palmer, the pharmaceutical industry lawyer, believes that calls for better ADHD data. "Is there really a significant increase in demand from legitimate patients and good doctors that have taken time to care and evaluate and prescribe? If the DEA has appropriate and accurate data up the supply chain, they can use that data to make reasonable supply determinations," she says. "But I don't think they've gotten a handle on that. And I think it's going to take a while."

Until then, the DEA appears to have decided that suspicion is its safest option. The agency's order-monitoring rules are expected to become even stricter this year. A proposed draft would expand the definition of a "suspicious order" to include unusual characteristics "of the customer submitting the order". It means anyone requesting controlled substances could be be flagged for any reason - yet another barrier for ADHD patients.

That raises a more fundamental question: who should decide who deserves Adderall? Cerebral may have damaged the mental health profession's credibility by overprescribing medication. But if the DEA takes the opposite tack - restricting the supply before it understands the demand - it, too, distorts patients' access to care.

Is there a hard limit on the number of people who deserve care? How many patients is the DEA willing to refuse treatment before it considers revising its quotas?

As long as ADHD meds are considered suspicious, it will be harder to train the specialists and build the infrastructure that patients need - which could mean the shortages might never truly be resolved.

For ADHD patients, the solution is clear: when someone tells you they're on fire, believe them. "The government is blaming us for the problems that we're having," says Faati, "which feels the same as when me and other kids couldn't manage our rooms or homework, and we were punished. It's not our fault that our lives are falling apart now that we don't have access to our medicine."

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'The worst it's ever been': mysterious US Adderall shortage puts ADHD patients at risk

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hen the last tablet of Ritalin rattled softly in the plastic vial, Faati knew that sound meant trouble. The last time, theyhad run out of ADHD meds for three months and struggled to remember tasks or even tell time at the Washington state cafeteria where they worked.

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I chose this problem because it is a huge issue in America, food insecurity leads to many issues including school performance and children's growth and development.

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Frito-Lay, Quaker, and PepsiCo Foundation Team Up with Former Arizona Cardinal Drew Stanton, GENYOUth and Additional Partners to Award Grab and Go Meal Equipment Packages to Phoenix Union High Schools
, /PRNewswire/ -- , the national non-profit organization founded by America's dairy farmers and the NFL to create healthier school communities, announced today the completion of its Mission 57: End Student Hunger initiative with the awarding of Grab and Go meal equipment and NFL FLAG-In-Schools kits to the Phoenix Union High School District (PXU). Combined with recent grants to Tucson Unified and Casa Grande Elementary School Districts, and with the support of purpose-minded partners including Frito-Lay North America, The Quaker Oats Company, and the PepsiCo Foundation in collaboration with the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee and the Dairy Council of Arizona, GENYOUth has provided school meal equipment packages to 22 Arizona schools over the past three weeks.

GENYOUth, the national non-profit organization which creates healthier school communities, announced today with partners Frito-Lay North America, The Quaker Oats Company, and the PepsiCo Foundation, in collaboration with Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee and Dairy Council of Arizona, the completion of its Mission 57: End Student Hunger initiative with the awarding of Grab and Go meal equipment and NFL FLAG-In-Schools kits to the Phoenix Union High School District (PXU). Today's announcement marks the completion of a 57-school effort to tackle student food insecurity in Arizona by providing equipment critical to increasing access to and participation in school meals. At Central High School in Phoenix this morning, over 100 students joined former Arizona Cardinal and NFL Legend Drew Stanton, along with school district officials and community leaders to celebrate the arrival of the new school meal equipment.

At Central High School in Phoenix this morning, over 100 students joined former Arizona Cardinal and NFL Legend Drew Stanton, along with school district officials and community leaders including Principal Leticia Avalos, to celebrate the arrival of new school meal equipment, including breakfast/meal carts, mobile milk coolers, and NFL FLAG-In-Schools kits.

Today's grant marks the completion of Mission 57: End Student Hunger, a community initiative aligned with Super Bowl LVII which has - through additional support provided by BHHS Legacy Foundation, Fiesta Bowl Charities, Fry's Food Stores, and the ISA Foundation -- provided a total of 57 equipment packages to help tackle food insecurity and increase physical activity in high-need Arizona schools. Nearly one in five² children in Arizona are living in food insecurity yet the state ranks in the bottom half of all states in school breakfast participation³.

All totaled, Mission 57 will provide access to over 8.5 million school meals among 31,000 Arizona students. Super Bowl LVII's commitment to tackling student food insecurity will continue on Saturday, February 11, with Taste of the NFL presented by Frito Lay, Quaker and PepsiCo Foundation, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix ( TasteoftheNFL.com).

"Over 30 million students rely on school meals for a significant portion of their daily nutrition, and for many, it is the only meal they receive on some days. Our Grab and Go meal equipment has been proven to increase average daily meal participation by as much as 27 percent by reducing barriers to school breakfast in the cafeteria including lack of time and stigma," said Ann Marie Krautheim, M.A., R.D., L.D., CEO of GENYOUth. "Mission 57, with the support of Frito-Lay, Quaker, the PepsiCo Foundation, and other purpose-minded partners, has addressed youth food insecurity where it is most needed, in high-need school communities including Phoenix. Together we are providing a crucial step forward in ending student hunger in Arizona."

"The Phoenix Union High School District serves over 28,000 beautiful young people in Arizona's capital city," said Dr. Chad Gestson, PXU Superintendent. "Although our District receives free meals for all students thanks to various national programs, our schools need support feeding our kids. PXU thanks GENYOUth, Frito-Lay, Quaker, the PepsiCo Foundation, and the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee for their generous grant, which will help to increase our student's participation."

"I am honored to be supporting Mission 57: End Student Hunger in Arizona and participating in today's school event in Phoenix Union High School District," said Drew Stanton, former Arizona Cardinal and NFL Legend. "Tackling student food insecurity needs to be a top priority, as daily school meals along with regular physical activity leads to improved health and academic performance."

"Frito-Lay, Quaker and PepsiCo Foods North America are proud to support GENYOUth in providing critical equipment that directly impacts students and alleviates food insecurity in Arizona," said Joan Cetera, Vice President of Communications, PepsiCo Foods North America. "We are committed to meeting the needs of communities in which we serve, and with the support of PepsiCo Foundation, Frito-Lay and Quaker we are providing essential resources to allow communities to thrive."

"Through our Food for Good efforts, the PepsiCo Foundation is committed to addressing food insecurity by increasing equitable access to nutritious foods and other critical resources in the communities where we live and work throughout the United States," said C.D. Glin, President, PepsiCo Foundation, and Global Head of Philanthropy, PepsiCo. "Alongside Quaker and Frito-Lay, our support of GENYOUth's Mission 57 and Taste of the NFL initiatives enables us to sustain a commitment to and focus on Arizona's next generation of leaders. As part of the overall Mission 57 initiative, we are proud that our support will positively impact over 12,000 students and help to increase access to over 3 million school meals."

"Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee is proud to be a supporter of Mission 57, and with Super Bowl LVII just a few days away, we thank GENYOUth and all partners and supporters who are prioritizing the health and well-being of students today and every day," said Jay Parry, President & Chief Executive Officer of the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee.

"Dairy farmers in Arizona and throughout the nation are committed year-round to the health and well-being of our nation's children. We are proud to be partnering with GENYOUth and other partners to ensure school meal participation and to provide equitable access to nutritious dairy products," said Tammy Baker, General Manager, Dairy Council of Arizona.

For more information on Mission 57: End Student Hunger and to purchase tickets to Taste of the NFL, visit GENOUthNow.org and TasteoftheNFL.com. To help GENYOUth End Student Hunger, visit GENYOUthNow.org/donate/.

¹ Stacker via Feeding America data (2020)

² Food Research & Action Center

³ MMS
About PepsiCo
About GENYOUth

GENYOUth is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that creates healthier school communities. Founded by America's dairy farmers and the NFL, GENYOUth convenes a network of private and public partners, including Fortune 100 companies and foundations, to raise funds for youth wellness initiatives that give youth the inspiration, motivation, and programs to be healthy high-achieving students. GENYOUth's flagship program, Fuel Up to Play 60, enrolls over 73,000 U.S. schools, reaching over 38 million students. Our school nutrition grants increase access to healthy school meals among food insecure students. NFL FLAG-In-Schools is the fastest-growing youth sport in the country (ages 6-14) with over 32,000 flag kits to school communities reaching over 15 million students. AdVenture Capital brings out the entrepreneurial spirit and creativity of students with the support of corporate mentors to solve real world problems. GENYOUth is the official charitable partner of Taste of the NFL, a purpose-driven Super Bowl culinary experience that raises awareness and generates funds to fight hunger and food insecurity to support the organization's commitment to end student hunger.
About Frito-Lay North America
About Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee
About the PepsiCo Foundation
The Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee is an Arizona non-profit responsible for planning and executing a successful Super Bowl LVII in 2023. The goal of the Host Committee is to galvanize local stakeholders in a united approach to hosting the largest single-day sporting event in the world by maximizing positive media exposure, fueling the economic engine of Arizona, and leaving a lasting legacy. The Host Committee serves as liaison between the NFL and all regional efforts, culminating with the game in 2023 at State Farm Stadium, home to the Arizona Cardinals. This is the fourth time Arizona is hosting the Super Bowl, following 1996, 2008 and 2015. Only four other sites (South Florida, New Orleans, Los Angeles, and Tampa Bay) hold this distinction. For more information, visit azsuperbowl.com or follow @AZSuperBowl on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
About Quaker
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $79 billion in net revenue in 2021, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo's product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with PepsiCo Positive (pep+). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the center of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for planet and people. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com.

Frito-Lay North America is the $18 billion convenient foods division of PepsiCo, Inc. (NASDAQ: ), which is headquartered in Purchase, N.Y. Frito-Lay snacks include Lay's and Ruffles potato chips, Doritos tortilla chips, Cheetos snacks, Tostitos tortilla chips and branded dips, SunChips multigrain snacks and Fritos corn chips. The company operates 30+ manufacturing facilities across the U.S. and Canada, more than 200 distribution centers and services 315,000 retail customers per week through its direct-store-delivery model. Learn more about Frito-Lay at the corporate website, http:www.fritolay.com/, on Twitter fritolay, on Instagram @fritolay and on Facebook Frito-Lay.

Established in 1962, the PepsiCo Foundation, the philanthropic arm of PepsiCo, invests in the essential elements of a sustainable food system with a mission to support thriving communities. Working with non-profits and experts around the globe, we're focused on helping communities obtain access to food security, safe water and economic opportunity. We strive for tangible impact in the places where we live and work-collaborating with industry peers, local and international organizations, and our employees to affect large-scale change on the issues that matter to us and are of global importance. Learn more at www.pepsicofoundation.com.

The Quaker Oats Company, headquartered in Chicago, is a unit of PepsiCo, Inc., one of the world's largest consumer packaged goods companies. For more than 140 years, Quaker's brands have served as symbols of quality, great taste, and nutrition. Quaker® Oats, Quaker® Rice Cakes and Quaker Chewy® Granola Bars are consumer favorites. For more information, please visit www.QuakerOats.com, www.Facebook.com/Quaker, or follow us on Twitter and Instagram @Quaker.

Dairy Council ® of Arizona (DCAZ) is a the not-for-profit,  nutrition education branch  of Arizona Milk Producers. Staffed by registered dietitians, DCAZ strives to contribute to the achievement of optimal health for the Arizona community by providing nutrition education based on the latest scientific research and the concept of a balanced diet that includes milk and milk products. To address hunger initiatives in the local community, DCAZ provides food preparation and storage equipment to food banks and school food service programs.

Phoenix Union High School

Phoenix Union High School District (PXU) is one of the largest and most progressive high school districts in the United States. With 24 schools, over 28,000 students, and nearly 4,000 employees, PXU covers 220-square miles of Arizona's capital city. PXU is a portfolio district with 11 comprehensive high schools, six small specialty schools, three micro schools, three support schools, and a digital academy. At Phoenix Union, we provide schools of opportunity that welcome, love, and inspire all to go places and do things that matter.

SOURCE GENYOUth

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Super Bowl LVII's Mission 57: End Student Hunger Completes 57-School Effort to Tackle Youth Food Insecurity in Arizona

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Frito-Lay, Quaker, and PepsiCo Foundation Team Up with Former Arizona Cardinal Drew Stanton, GENYOUth and Additional Partners to Award Grab and Go Meal Equipment Packages to Phoenix Union High Schools , /PRNewswire/ -- , the national non-profit organization founded by America's dairy farmers and the NFL to create healthier school communities, announced today the completion of its Mission 57: End Student Hunger initiative with the awarding of Grab and Go meal equipment and NFL FLAG-In-Schools kits to the Phoenix Union High School District (PXU).

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Technology in education and why it helps students in the classroom (Shannan Hagen)

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Technology in education and why it helps students in the classroom (Shannan Hagen)

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This issue of technology in the classroom is important to me, as technology becomes more relevant in society today, more schools are using technology may schools are becoming unequal with having technology and not have technology which is putting some students back and not giving the advancements we need.

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Many of today's high-demand jobs were created in the last decade, according to the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). As advances in technology drive globalization and digital transformation, teachers can help students acquire the necessary skills to succeed in the careers of the future.

How important is technology in education? The COVID-19 pandemic is quickly demonstrating why online education should be a vital part of teaching and learning. By integrating technology into existing curricula, as opposed to using it solely as a crisis-management tool, teachers can harness online learning as a powerful educational tool.

The effective use of digital learning tools in classrooms can increase student engagement, help teachers improve their lesson plans, and facilitate personalized learning. It also helps students build essential 21st-century skills.

Virtual classrooms, video, augmented reality (AR), robots, and other technology tools can not only make class more lively, they can also create more inclusive learning environments that foster collaboration and inquisitiveness and enable teachers to collect data on student performance.

Still, it's important to note that technology is a tool used in education and not an end in itself. The promise of educational technology lies in what educators do with it and how it is used to best support their students' needs.

Educational Technology Challenges

BuiltIn reports that 92 percent of teachers understand the impact of technology in education. According to Project Tomorrow, 59 percent of middle school students say digital educational tools have helped them with their grades and test scores. These tools have become so popular that the educational technology market is projected to expand to $342 billion by 2025, according to the World Economic Forum.

However, educational technology has its challenges, particularly when it comes to implementation and use. For example, despite growing interest in the use of AR, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technology, less than 10 percent of schools report having these tools in their classrooms, according to Project Tomorrow. Additional concerns include excessive screen time, the effectiveness of teachers using the technology, and worries about technology equity.

Prominently rising from the COVID-19 crisis is the issue of content. Educators need to be able to develop and weigh in on online educational content, especially to encourage students to consider a topic from different perspectives. The urgent actions taken during this crisis did not provide sufficient time for this. Access is an added concern - for example, not every school district has resources to provide students with a laptop, and internet connectivity can be unreliable in homes.

Additionally, while some students thrive in online education settings, others lag for various factors, including support resources. For example, a student who already struggled in face-to-face environments may struggle even more in the current situation. These students may have relied on resources that they no longer have in their homes.

Still, most students typically demonstrate confidence in using online education when they have the resources, as studies have suggested. However, online education may pose challenges for teachers, especially in places where it has not been the norm.

Despite the challenges and concerns, it's important to note the benefits of technology in education, including increased collaboration and communication, improved quality of education, and engaging lessons that help spark imagination and a search for knowledge in students.

The Benefits of Technology in Education

Teachers want to improve student performance, and technology can help them accomplish this aim. To mitigate the challenges, administrators should help teachers gain the competencies needed to enhance learning for students through technology. Additionally, technology in the classroom should make teachers' jobs easier without adding extra time to their day.

Technology provides students with easy-to-access information, accelerated learning, and fun opportunities to practice what they learn. It enables students to explore new subjects and deepen their understanding of difficult concepts, particularly in STEM. Through the use of technology inside and outside the classroom, students can gain 21st-century technical skills necessary for future occupations.

Still, children learn more effectively with direction. The World Economic Forum reports that while technology can help young students learn and acquire knowledge through play, for example, evidence suggests that learning is more effective through guidance from an adult, such as a teacher.

Leaders and administrators should take stock of where their faculty are in terms of their understanding of online spaces. From lessons learned during this disruptive time, they can implement solutions now for the future. For example, administrators could give teachers a week or two to think carefully about how to teach courses not previously online. In addition to an exploration of solutions, flexibility during these trying times is of paramount importance.

Below are examples of how important technology is in education and the benefits it offers to students and teachers.

Increased Collaboration and Communication

Educational technology can foster collaboration. Not only can teachers engage with students during lessons, but students can also communicate with each other. Through online lessons and learning games, students get to work together to solve problems. In collaborative activities, students can share their thoughts and ideas and support each other. At the same time, technology enables one-on-one interaction with teachers. Students can ask classroom-related questions and seek additional help on difficult-to-understand subject matter. At home, students can upload their homework, and teachers can access and view completed assignments using their laptops.

Personalized Learning Opportunities

Technology allows 24/7 access to educational resources. Classes can take place entirely online via the use of a laptop or mobile device. Hybrid versions of learning combine the use of technology from anywhere with regular in-person classroom sessions. In both scenarios, the use of technology to tailor learning plans for each student is possible. Teachers can create lessons based on student interests and strengths. An added benefit is that students can learn at their own pace. When they need to review class material to get a better understanding of essential concepts, students can review videos in the lesson plan. The data generated through these online activities enable teachers to see which students struggled with certain subjects and offer additional assistance and support.

Curiosity Driven by Engaging Content

Through engaging and educational content, teachers can spark inquisitiveness in children and boost their curiosity, which research says has ties to academic success. Curiosity helps students get a better understanding of math and reading concepts. Creating engaging content can involve the use of AR, videos, or podcasts. For example, when submitting assignments, students can include videos or interact with students from across the globe.

Improved Teacher Productivity and Efficiency

Teachers can leverage technology to achieve new levels of productivity, implement useful digital tools to expand learning opportunities for students, and increase student support and engagement. It also enables teachers to improve their instruction methods and personalize learning. Schools can benefit from technology by reducing the costs of physical instructional materials, enhancing educational program efficiency, and making the best use of teacher time.

Become a Leader in Enriching Classrooms through Technology

Educators unfamiliar with some of the technology used in education may not have been exposed to the tools as they prepared for their careers or as part of their professional development. Teachers looking to make the transition and acquire the skills to incorporate technology in education can take advantage of learning opportunities to advance their competencies. For individuals looking to help transform the education system through technology, American University's School of Education online offers a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Master of Arts in Education Policy and Leadership to prepare educators with essential tools to become leaders. Courses such as Education Program and Policy Implementation and Teaching Science in Elementary School equip graduate students with critical competencies to incorporate technology into educational settings effectively.

Learn more about American University's School of Education online and its master's degree programs.

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How Important Is Technology in Education? | American University

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How important is technology in education? Learn how American University's School of Education can prepare you to serve as a leader in educational technology.

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They tell us not to work while we do our student teaching. We don't get paid and we still need to pay for school, food, housing, and other resources. It's not feasible for us to go without working and complete our student teaching with no income.

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Animal Shelters lack of resources/materials due to overcrowding.

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Animal Shelters lack of resources/materials due to overcrowding.

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I wrote a paper last semester about No Kill SC 2024 and I learned that there are a lot of factors that go into making SC a no kill state. With shelters constantly being at capacity it is hard to take in more animals and properly care for them. Especially when they have limited resources, this ultimately leads to euthanization of animals who are treatable due to the lack of space.

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The Daily Gamecock at University of South Carolina

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Adopting or fostering animals from shelters and being a responsible pet owner is not only crucial for animals in need, but it also benefits the environment by protecting native species.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 6.3 million companion animals, such as cats and dogs, enter animal shelters every year. Overcrowding and pet surrender is a major issue in animal shelters, leading to over 900,000 shelter animals being euthanized annually.

"The truth is that you'll never adopt your way out of animal overcrowding situations," Jennifer Coody, the executive director of Animal Mission, said.

Adoption is just one aspect of responsible pet ownership. Sourcing an animal from a shelter ensures that the pet is kept off the street and given a safe home.

Even if you cannot commit to a full adoption, fostering an animal is just as valuable, as it gives them a loving place to live until they can find their forever home.

There are several adoptions and fostering options just within the Columbia area. Pawmetto Lifeline and Homeward Bound Pet Rescue are local adoptions and foster service providers.

"There are so many neglected, and ill-treated and homeless pets out there that we need to look to adoption to help combat that," Charlene Cassidy, a volunteer with Homeward Bound Pet Rescue, said. "But that's really not the only solution. We need strong spay-neuter programs here to help prevent unwanted and accidental litters of puppies and kittens."

Animal Mission provides spay and neuter services for animals and vouchers to lower the cost of the procedure for pet owners. Its mission is to help Midlands shelters achieve 'No Kill' status.

These shelter animals come from a number of backgrounds. Some were abandoned by their owners because they were not spayed or neutered, some were born in the wild and others could not be taken to their owners' new homes.

For companion animals accustomed to more sheltered existence, being out in the wild can be dangerous.

"I think folks think that cats can handle themselves on their own out in the wild," Cassidy said. "That's not necessarily true. That's a dangerous place for them to live. It's a dangerous place for dogs to live, too."

This overpopulation of animals, particularly cats, can be lowered by spaying and neutering them, especially if they venture outdoors often.

Spaying and neutering ensure that animals do not continue the cycle of producing large litters of animals with nowhere to go.

Taking proper care of animals, getting the necessary precautions and avoiding overpopulation in shelters would also help the local environment.

Cats are predators, meaning they hunt for their food. Because of this, they can cause harm to the native bird population and spread diseases as well. One of those diseases isToxoplasmosis, which can spread from cat to cat, and eventually humans, via parasites.

According to the American Bird Conservatory, cats have contributed to the extinction of 63 species of birds, mammals and reptiles in the wild.

Supporting animal shelters is crucial in preserving the lives and health of our animals and environment. By practicing methods of responsible pet ownership, the issues of euthanasia and overpopulation in animal shelters can be rectified. Any pet lover should turn their support into action by volunteering and spreading awareness.

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Column: Pet adoption and fostering are crucial to prevent overcrowding

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Adopting or fostering animals from shelters and being a responsible pet owner is not only crucial for animals in need, but it also benefits the environment by protecting native species. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 6.3 million companion animals, such as cats and dogs, enter animal shelters every year.

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The Issues of Racism and Implicit Bias against Black women and other minorities inside the Healthcare System.

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The Issues of Racism and Implicit Bias against Black women and other minorities inside the Healthcare System.

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As a woman of color and a woman in general, I find it massively important to learn about the issues of our healthcare system. The lack of care and support towards those who may not come from a background of wealth etc. are seemingly left to fend for theirselves inside the healthcare system because no one is listening to their voices, but I am.

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Amy Mason-Cooley was in so much pain this past June that she couldn't walk, a pain that she describes as feeling like "being sliced open with a rusty hand saw."

Her husband rushed her to USA Health University Hospital, a familiar trip for the Mobile, Alabama resident. Mason-Cooley, 37, regularly experiences excruciating pain as a result of sickle cell disease, a disorder in which abnormally crescent-shaped red blood cells can get stuck in blood vessels and prevent the flow of blood and oxygen to parts of the body.

After 24 hours at the hospital, her pain still hadn't subsided, but her doctor decided to take her off of medications despite her pleas that she was unable to walk and was still in crisis.

"As soon as he stopped all my medications, my blood count started dropping," she told TODAY. "It dropped down (low enough that) they started talking about doing a transfusion."

She advocated for herself, telling the doctor, "I don't want you to be in control of my care because you are not listening to me."

He ignored her requests and, according to her, even smirked in response. It wasn't until other medical staff came in and got her back on her medication hours later that she finally stabilized.

"I don't want you to be in control of my care because you are not listening to me."

Mason-Cooley filed a complaint with the hospital, and recounted her experience in a Facebook post that was shared over 13,000 times before she made it private. The post hit a nerve for numerous people across the country who have been denied appropriate care after their own pain was dismissed.

While the hospital did not return a request for comment, they did post a statement to their Facebook page saying they "investigate all complaints," after Mason-Cooley's post went viral.

A shared experience among Black women

Mason-Cooley's experience is all too familiar to other Black women, who are caught between being considered impervious to pain because of their race, and overly hysterical about pain because of their gender.

"Pain is an area ripe for implicit bias having an impact because it's an extremely subjective area," said Janice Sabin, a research professor at the University of Washington in Seattle, who studies implicit bias in medicine. "If a person is bleeding, you can figure out how much blood is lost. But someone who has lower back pain, for example, it's a very subjective measure." Additionally, she said, cultural differences in how people express their pain and how doctors register that expression, can impact pain management care as well.

Mason-Cooley says no matter how she expresses her pain, she runs the risk of being dismissed.

"There's so much judgment. If you're too calm, then they say, 'Oh, you're not sick. You don't look sick.' And then if you're crying and moaning, they say you're exaggerating. I don't really know what they want from us," she said, exasperated.

This particularly impacts people suffering from diseases like sickle cell disease, which almost exclusively affects Black people, or fibromyalgia, lupus and endometriosis - diseases that are often misdiagnosed and misunderstood.

Medicine's history of bias

Medicine has a history of bias, the vestiges of which we are still grappling with today.

A 2016 study found that nearly half of first and second year medical students believed that Black people have thicker skin than white people, and perceived Black people as experiencing less pain than white people, an idea born from 19th century experiments that were conducted by a physician named Thomas Hamilton. He was a wealthy plantation owner who regularly tortured an enslaved Black man named John Brown, creating blisters all over his body in an effort to prove Black skin went deeper than white skin.

A 2019 study published in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine analyzed data from 14 previously published studies on pain management and found that Black patients were 40% less likely to receive medication for acute pain compared to white patients, and 34% less likely to be prescribed opioids.

"The field of medicine was very complicit historically in racial categorization and biological concepts of race," said Sabin. Medicine's role in espousing biological differences between Black and white people laid the foundation for justifying slavery and the inhumane treatment of Black people. Dr. James Marion Sims, known as the founding father of gynecology, conducted experimental surgeries on enslaved Black women without anesthesia, developing a body of work that continues to misrepresent how Black women experience pain.

The slavery-era belief that Black people were hypersexual and simultaneously less intelligent than white people also continues to impact the care that Black women get.

"With Black women there is an assumption that they don't know their bodies, that they don't understand, that they're not educated about their bodies," Dr. Colene Arnold, a gynecologist who specializes in pelvic pain disorders, told New Hampshire Public Radio's The Exchange podcast. She pointed to a study that found Black women are less likely to be diagnosed for endometriosis than white women when they were experiencing pelvic pain, and instead, misdiagnosed as having pelvic inflammatory disease, which is typically sexually transmitted.

"When we look at patient testimonies, particularly from Black women ... We're seeing that these typical tropes of Black women are used ... that they are hypersexualized and that if they have some sort of illness or pain, that it's likely self-inflicted in a sense that they did something wrong," Keisha Ray, an assistant professor at the McGovern Center for Humanities and Ethics in Houston, Texas, told The Exchange.

'I'm here because I'm sick'

In another pain crisis just last year, Mason-Cooley recalls being left in a hospital waiting room for 10 hours until she passed out from pain, only to wake up to a nurse telling her, "This isn't a pain clinic," implying that she was seeking drugs.

"I have straight up told doctors and nurses, 'If I wanted it to get high, I could do it on the streets for cheaper, with less judgment. I'm here because I'm sick,'" Mason-Cooley said.

Others on Mason-Cooley's Facebook thread posted about experiencing pain in the middle of the night and forcing themselves to wait until the morning to go to the hospital, because they knew a 2 a.m. trip to the emergency room for severe pain would only result in accusations that they are addicts. It's a lot of added stress to deal with when you're struggling with intense pain.

And having untreated pain can have long-term physical, psychological, social and economic consequences. Additionally, say the authors of the 2019 study, pain that's dismissed causes patients to have less trust in the medical system. That was what Sevon Blake, a 29-year-old Black baker in Queens, New York, experienced.

"I used to have a lot of lower abdominal pain, and I brought up the concern to my doctor multiple times. He would say, "'It's probably just a little gas, you're fine', and just kind of like brush under the rug."

"... It's gotta stop. We're asking you to listen to us."

Blake switched from her Asian male doctor to a Black female doctor who took her concerns seriously. Her new doctor listened to her, discussed her options and eventually referred her to a gastroenterologist. It turns out Blake has a gluten intolerance, an issue that was managed with dietary changes. "I didn't feel like I could talk to my previous doctor, if he was just going to dismiss me, then I'm not going to be proactive and tell him what I'm feeling."

Mason-Cooley, a vocal advocate for the sickle cell community who spoke on Capitol Hill about the disease in 2018, said all she wants is to be heard.

"I don't want to undermine any doctor or any nurse because it's a noble job," she said. "But I know people with sickle cell that have actually died from a heart attack because the pain was so excruciating. No one took it seriously and they passed away. So it's gotta stop. We're asking you to listen to us. We just want to be treated the way you would want your own family treated."

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'You are not listening to me': Black women on pain and implicit bias in medicine

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Medicine has a history of bias, the vestiges of which we are still grappling with today.

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Equitable Access to Technology for Students and Educators (Maggie Cooper)

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Equitable Access to Technology for Students and Educators (Maggie Cooper)

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This is something I care about as a future educator. I believe all students should have access to equal technology and have an equal opportunity to learn. I also believe all educators should be able to connect with other educations and constantly learn from each other.

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Equitable access to technology is worth fighting for. Technology can empower students and enhance their learning. It also increases the number of opportunities they are exposed to. In many schools in the United States (and all over the world), students are expected or required to have digital access to complete their required coursework. However, not all students have equitable access to technology.

In this article, we will explain what equitable access to technology is and why it's important. In addition, we will outline what educators can do to promote access to technology for every student on their roster.

What Is Equitable Access to Technology?

The commercialization of electronic devices may seem ubiquitous, but not all students have access to them at home. Digital access measures the level of participation of students in using digital tools (including both hardware devices and software programs).

Equitable access to technology refers to all students having access to technology and information regardless of their ethnicity, socio-economic status, age, physical ability, or any other quality. It's not only integral for opportunities to learn, but also a fundamental component in assisting students with acquiring the knowledge and skills they need to become digitally savvy citizens.

A lack of equitable access to technology and information deprives students of learning experiences and can even limit their opportunities after graduation. This inequity is further exacerbated by the need for distance learning this school year.

Access to technology is more than just providing devices and connectivity to students. It also involves making sure every student has the opportunity to learn from a teacher who understands how to use technology.

Why Does Equitable Access to Technology Matter?

Many students lack access to technology at home. Some only have access to a smartphone and no data plan, while others have multiple devices and internet access. This disparity in digital access has been called "the homework gap" by policymakers.

A student's socio-economic status impacts how likely they are to have access to technology. A survey by the Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan American think-tank, found that 35 percent of households in the United States with school-age children and an annual income of under $30,000 do not have access to high-speed internet. Among households earning $75,000 or more, only 6 percent lack high-speed internet.

The National Center for Education Statistics conducted a survey that found only 61 percent of school-aged children had internet access at home, and yet a majority of students reported requiring the internet to complete assignments.

Educators are well aware of the homework gap and how important it is for students to have equitable access to technology. Yet much more could be done. A recent infrastructure survey from the Consortium of School Networking, an association and advocacy group that promotes emerging technologies with decision-makers in K-12 education, found that less than 10 percent of school district leaders felt that 100 percent of their students had access to technology outside of school.

Technology access is becoming a Catch-22 for students. Increasingly, schools and school districts are promoting the use of digital tools for assignments, especially with part of the 2020-2021 school year moving to online learning. However, students may not be able to get access to the technology required while at home.

What Educators can do to Promote Equitable Access to Technology for Students

Educators play an important role in securing equitable access to technology. They are on the front lines with students. In this section, we will outline some practical tips on how educators can promote equitable access to technology for all their students.

Develop a Systematic Technology Plan

If you are an educator, consider encouraging your school or school district to develop a systemwide technology plan. Be sure to build it on a foundation of policies that address what is required to provide equitable access to technology for students. At their core, these policies should outline where to go for help getting access, ensure individuals know how to access the technology, and be flexible enough to accommodate the diverse instructional requirements and learning styles that students have.

Get Teachers Involved

Teachers are the liaison between school leadership and students. They are connected with students and have a good sense of their needs and capabilities. School leaders should work alongside teachers when implementing programs that promote equitable access to technology for their students. They should be sure to consult with the relevant teachers who oversee students in the area the initiative is trying to address.

For example, school leaders should talk to their literacy department before purchasing software that boosts literacy skills. It may seem like a no-brainer, but many schools end up purchasing outdated or irrelevant technology simply because they did not run them by teachers beforehand. After all, the first people who should be trained in the technology are the teachers who will be using it to educate.

Start Digital Literacy Programs

Despite living in a technological world, many students in the United States are not fully comfortable with digital tools. Some of the factors that cause discomfort with technology among students include lack of financial resources to purchase digital tools and limited proficiency in English.

Teachers are often aware of which students lack technological skills. Educators would do well to implement digital literacy programs that allow students to catch up on their technological skills. Some schools host an after-school program that teaches students the basic computer skills they require.

Utilize Governmental Resources

Educators can take advantage of governmental resources for digital access. Many schools already utilize government initiatives like the Federal E-Rate program, which provides discounted internet access and funding for schools and school districts to help get their kids online while at school. However, there are also many programs available that promote technology outside of the classroom as well, including local initiatives to provide hotspots and laptop loaners to students.

Governmental policy is a key resource in ensuring students have equitable access to technology. In the United States, Title IV of the Every Student Succeeds Act makes funding available so that schools are able to purchase digital tools. This policy assists educators and benefits students. Check to see what grants are available in your area.

Use Partnerships to Enable Equitable Access to Technology

Many schools have a shortage of digital resources available for students to use. Despite available government funding, schools may lack the technology their students require. Partnerships between schools and external organizations or other schools in the community can help educators bridge their gap in funds for technology.

The best partnerships are with organizations that have the resources your school lacks. Use the resources your school does have to barter for access to technology. For example, one school might loan out a sports field to another school in exchange for time in their computer lab.

Equitable access to technology is a large societal issue. Luckily, educators have the power to increase equitable access to technology. To learn about technology in the classroom, discover resources for teachers and students, and gain an understanding of issues in education, head to GoGuardian. Our smart technology is here to optimize your digital learning program for K-12 learners.

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Equitable Access to Technology for Students & Educators | GoGuardian

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Equitable access to technology is worth fighting for. Technology can empower students and enhance their learning. It also increases the number of opportunities they are exposed to. In many schools in the United States (and all over the world), students are expected or required to have digital access to complete their required coursework.

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I chose this problem because I am a huge animal lover and this would have a huge impact within South Carolina. My mom also works at Charleston Animal Society and talks about how many animals in the shelter get Euthanized just because they don't have the space for them anymore. This "No Kill SC" would help give animals a second chance at life.

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No Kill South Carolina Is: We aim to save every healthy and treatable animal in South Carolina We're raising the standard of care in South Carolina shelters We promote proven lifesaving strategies backed by science and statistics No shelter, rescue, or person can do it alone. We're creating no kill communities.

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I want to learn more about this problem because I went to Gaston County school's for k-12. I know salary and payment are a huge problem for teacher's and as future teacher I think it's important to know what is going on.

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Teachers received incorrect pay or weren't paid at all when Gaston County Schools switched to the new system, and cafeteria workers allegedly weren't paid enough.

GASTON COUNTY, N.C. - Gaston County teachers held a rally outside of Monday's board of education meeting over a payroll system that they say still hasn't fixed issues from January.

Numerous teachers and other school staff members received incorrect pay or weren't paid at all due to a new state-mandated payroll system. Gaston County is one of the pilot districts for the new system, which is a step to modernize the outdated system used in schools across North Carolina.

In addition to payroll issues, the group claims cafeteria workers weren't paid the $20 an hour they were promised for summer school services. Pam Miller, the president of the Gaston chapter of the North Carolina Association of Educators, said they had people signed up to speak during public comments at Monday's board meeting.

Superintendent Jeffrey Booker apologized to employees whose pay was incorrect, telling them in September the district was continuing work on "outstanding issues." That answer didn't satisfy educators at the town hall, who pointed out flaws with the payroll system that started in the second half of the 2021-22 school year.

Emails obtained by WCNC Charlotte showed that Gaston County Schools administrators were advised not to transition to the system. Eric Moore, the fiscal analyst for the General Assembly, said Gaston County Schools chose to implement the new system against recommendations from state leaders.
All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.

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Gaston County teachers rally over payroll system issues

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Teachers received incorrect pay or weren't paid at all when Gaston County Schools switched to the new system, and cafeteria workers allegedly weren't paid enough. GASTON COUNTY, N.C. - Gaston County teachers held a rally outside of Monday's board of education meeting over a payroll system that they say still hasn't fixed issues from January.

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I chose this problem because it is a current issue in the state we live in. I am a huge animal lover so it is heartbreaking to know what the implications and effects are of overcrowding. At home, I frequently visit my local animal shelter and have adopted my three cats from there. I was able to see how overwhelmed the staff was and how stressed the animals were in such a congested space.

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CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Throughout the state, animal shelters are seeing an all-time high in animal intake numbers, causing shelters to declare a state of emergency for the second time in history.

The summer is always the busiest time for shelters, but this summer specifically, a combination of different factors has created an influx of dogs overcrowding shelters.

Some reasons for the influx could be the increasing population, home rental problems, kids going back to school, moving problems and flooding.

Joe Elmore, Charleston Animal Society President and CEO, brought Bo, a shelter dog since the beginning of August, to an interview to show how this emergency can really affect the animals.

"The state of emergency means that dogs such as Bo, don't have a place in shelters because we're all so overcrowded right now and they need homes," Elmore said. "Well, what is the risk? The risk is that animals like Bo may not make it out alive at shelters across our entire state. We need people that come in and make room for one more in their homes and in their hearts for animals."

Being the largest animal shelter in the state, the Charleston Animal Society has over 700 animals in the system at the moment with 60 dogs available for adoption right now.

"My heart is breaking for these animals," Kay Hyman, director of community engagement, said. "They're sitting in a cage. They want to be at your house, on your couch, in your backyard. They don't want to be sitting in a kennel."

Shelters like the Charleston Animal Society and Berkeley County Animal Center said more dogs are coming in than being adopted, which is where the problem stems from.

If unable to adopt, both shelters ask people to consider fostering. Tiffany Hoffman, Berkeley County Animal Center Event Coordinator, and her family are on their 28 foster dog.

"Fostering is so rewarding," Hoffman said. "It's like anything, you try it once and you are hooked."

Using social media to promote is also very helpful in getting the word out about animals in shelters. The Charleston Animal Society is waiving all adoption fees and providing potential owners with $250 worth of food and supplies.

"We need to get 100 adoptions out this weekend," Elmore said. "Cats and kittens also, but the ones that are most risk are the dogs because they don't do well when they stay in shelters for a long time."

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'My heart is breaking': SC animal shelters declare state of emergency due to overcrowding

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CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Throughout the state, animal shelters are seeing an all-time high in animal intake numbers, causing shelters to declare a state of emergency for the second time in history. The summer is always the busiest time for shelters, but this summer specifically, a combination of different factors has created an influx of dogs overcrowding shelters.