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Over the weekend, I had the privilege of participating as a judge of “Ready Writing” in a inter-school University Interscholastic League competition.
I was indeed impressed with the quality of the essays that were submitted.
Indeed nearly all of them were technically good.
The writers stated a clear position and then presented arguments in support of the position. This speaks very well for their teachers as they instilled the skills in these young minds that will probably be the single largest contribution to the future of these young people.

The ability to analyze a situation and present a clear, concise and persuasive position is possibly one of the most important skills developed during the educational years, I know it has been in my career.
The six best submissions, that I reviewed, were original and creative. They would be well received in any forum. This reflects well on the guidance provided by the teacher/coaches. These dedicated coaches take time after class and on weekends to help these students refine their skills. The results speak volumes for their efforts. The subjects that I read, were related to “the limitation of student self-expression by a Supreme Court Decision” and “a determination by BISD to reduce funding for extra-curricular activities”. All six presented clear logical and well reasoned arguments. The difference in the quality and persuasiveness of the submissions was that when emotional reasoning characterized with “I feel”, or “I think” was introduced the argument was weakened. The top six used clear analytical reasoning. The “number one” submission was an extraordinary piece that was enormously creative and written in a form that I had never encountered before. It was indeed very persuasive.
I am not a professional teacher; I am a management consultant that specializes in rebuilding weak businesses and assisting in the start-up of new business. I have, however, served as an instructor in International Business at the UT at Brownsville and Texas Southmost College for a number of semesters. I noted that many of the students needed remedial help in just such skills to enable them to prepare a summary of their business project. These young folks do not need remedial help.
This group of students was from Brownsville Middle Schools – not even in high school yet. WOW.
This story does have a down side! I am told that these UIL writing competitions will no longer be supported at BISD. I sincerely hope that this information is in error.
I urge everyone to take a bigger interest in the education of our children, help out with these very valuable activities; get to know your elected officials and vote for the best candidates. Less than the best is not good enough for our children.