About the Author:
He is best known for keynoting and presenting workshops on retaining, educating and graduating first generation students from book-poor homes. With a compelling personal journey from dropping out of school to earning two graduate degrees from Harvard, he motivates and inspires willing learners. His message urges educators, students, parents, community leaders and youth development professionals in public and private institutions of learning across the country to help the next generation succeed by staying in school, becoming educated and graduating. His children and grandchildren are products of the Chicago Public Schools. Having worked at the US Department of Education and as a Professor of Sociology at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago for 25 years, Dr. Betances is widely recognized for his advocacy of First Generation Students. He and his wife, Dr. Laura M. Torres Souder, have provided professional leadership and staff development training to over 1,112 public and private schools at home and abroad. They continue to provide diversity training and advocate for authentic literacy throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam and Micronesia.
Review:
If America committed itself to ensure that every child in today s K-12 generation read this book, America would be back on tract to reclaim its position at the head of the class among the nations of the world. No library, home, or backpack should be without a copy of this brilliantly written book. --Dr. Juan Andrade, Jr. President United States Hispanic Leadership Institute, Chicago, IL
The nations coach for education puts it on paper. With his signature passion, Betances pens a powerful testimony to the value of formal education as a means not only to economic success but dignity as well for today s youth. ...This motivational volume surveys the many skills and responsibilities a person needs to build confidence and excel in today s knowledge-driven world. Young adults of any racial/ethnic background will catch Dr. Betances infectious enthusiasm for learning and the paths to discipline and structure, and with them, success. --Richard Fry, Ph.D., Senior Research Associate Pew Hispanic Center
In my generation we need something or someone that will lend a helping hand and be real with us. Throughout the book every step is clear and understandable. Each step guides teens along the path of success for good grades, graduating, and engaging in life. I've taken one of the steps for my own road of reaching achievement by completing school tasks early. Also, it is a fun and easy read. --Jadea Edmonds, Student Booker T. Washington High School, Montgomery, AL
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