Revolt Insights
Confront Funding Inequities Now
REVOLT AGAINST THE K-12 STATUS QUO
I wrote this book to shine a spotlight on a national scandal hiding in plain sight: vast interstate K-12 funding disparities—an inequity anathema to the bedrock principle of equality in a democracy.
You could equate this longstanding inequity to the tyranny of government-sponsored inequality.
This kind of tyranny will disappear if, and only if, the American people plant a stake in the ground and stage, at long last, a ‘revolt’ against the ‘enslavement’ of the dreams and aspirations of K-12 students who attend underfunded public schools in underfunded states.
Rolland B
YES, YOU MATTER ... YOUR PURPOSE AWAITS YOU!
My intent: To be of service, to pass on the key lessons I learned from the University of Hard Knocks so that teens and young adults who pick up this book don’t end up ‘wandering in the desert for 40 years’ without definiteness of purpose like I did, to the abject dismay of my humdrum biography.
So, here’s a guide –a roadmap– outlining practical steps young people can use to find, recognize, and crystallize their contribution to the world, the grand tapestry of life, and the symphony of human civilization.
Rolland B
THE CASE FOR VALUES EDUCATION
Who will argue that a renaissance in values-based education –with emphasis on core democratic values and constitutional principles– designed to produce enlightened, responsible citizens, would not increase the chances of preserving, defending, and protecting American democracy… so that ultimately the “government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the Earth”?
Rolland B
SCHOOL BOARDS & AMERICAN DEMOCRACY
To the thousands of ordinary citizens from all walks of life who, without much fanfare, meeting after meeting, do the critical, tedious task of exercising local control over America’s public K-12 education, this book is a tribute to you. You are manning the barricades of freedom exemplified by self-government that’s closest to the people. Please carry on.
To school board aspirants, especially immigrants and minorities who may be sitting on the sidelines, this book is your summons to serve. Step up to the plate and run. America needs you!
Rolland B
POVERTY OF THE MIND ... IN THE LAND OF THE FREE
Not long ago, before the epidemic of ‘impoverished minds’ hit America, truth was a critical pillar of the national political discourse.
The main thesis of this book is that the antidote to impoverished minds –which threaten the future of American democracy– is truth.
I thought I’d raise my lonely voice by calling for a renaissance in TRUTH education in our public schools, as part of renewed education in civics aimed at producing enlightened minds.
Does a culture of ‘truth’ sound like dreamland? Shangri-la? Garden of Eden? Pie in the sky? We’ll see.
The great Abraham Lincoln was a firm believer in the people. He believed that “If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crisis. The great point is to bring them the truth.”
Rolland B
Book Reviews
April Pulliam, Assistant Editor, Literary Titan
Revolt Against the K-12 Status Quo, by Rolland B., is a potent and meticulously researched critique of the systemic inequities in the U.S. public school system, particularly regarding the stark discrepancies in educational funding across different states. Author Rolland B, leveraging his extensive experience in school finance, delves deep into the disparities rooted in geographic, not racial, differences. He challenges the status quo by revealing a 75% discrepancy in educational spending between states, urging for a federal overhaul to address this injustice.
I found this book to be both a statistical revelation and a call to action. Rolland B’s analysis is thorough and persuasive, particularly his discussion on how these funding inequities disproportionately affect minority students. His examination of the U.S. Constitution and the suggestion to leverage the Ninth and Tenth Amendments for educational equity is thought-provoking and novel. While I enjoyed the book, I think it would be further enhanced by a more nuanced exploration of potential solutions and a deeper analysis of the impact of funding disparities on actual educational outcomes.
Revolt Against the K-12 Status Quo excels in shedding light on a critical, often overlooked aspect of American education. Rolland B’s passion for the subject is evident. While the book is densely packed with statistics and legal discussions, it remains accessible, thanks to Rolland B’s clear and direct writing style.
I recommend this book to educators, policymakers, and anyone interested in educational equity. Its rigorous analysis and passionate advocacy make it a valuable resource for understanding and addressing the systemic issues in U.S. public education. Its insights are indispensable for those involved in or concerned about the future of American education.
April Pulliam, Assistant Editor, Literary Titan
In Yes, You Matter, Rolland B presents a compelling guide for personal growth and self-discovery, exploring the depths of human potential. Central to the book's thesis is the belief that self-reflection is crucial to avoid stagnation and to continuously evolve in understanding oneself. By asking challenging existential questions, the book doesn't just ponder life's mysteries but also propels readers to critically assess their own existence and life choices.
The author skillfully intertwines philosophical concepts, psychological theories, and spiritual insights to create a robust framework for readers. Drawing on Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs, the Japanese concept of Ikigai, and the Greek philosophy of Eudaimonia, Rolland B constructs a multi-faceted approach towards finding and nurturing one's purpose. The book's practicality is one of its strengths, offering actionable exercises and strategies to help readers build self-worth, confront self-doubt, and follow their passions with conviction. Rolland B's encouraging tone is another highlight of the book. He engages readers with empathy, understanding, and a shared sense of struggle, making the journey of self-discovery feel like a communal experience. This approach makes the book not only informative but also deeply relatable. The author's real-life experiences with societal pressures, self-doubt, and challenging relationships lend authenticity and depth to his guidance, positioning him as a credible and experienced voice on the subject. The book's nuanced handling of sensitive topics, such as ethnicity and toxic relationships, is noteworthy. The author navigates these subjects with care and insight, reflecting his deep understanding and experience in self-reflection. The use of metaphors adds an element of elegance and further depth to the narrative.
Yes, You Matter is an inspiring call to action in a world often dominated by social media trends and the threat of conformity. It's a book that not only encourages self-assessment and personal growth but also champions the importance of charting one's unique path in life. With its blend of philosophical depth, practical advice, and empathetic tone, the book stands as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand themselves better and forge a meaningful and fulfilling life.
April Pulliam, Assistant Editor, Literary Titan
The Case for Values Education delves into the crucial role of education in shaping the future of the United States, presenting it as a pivotal force at a time riddled with division and uncertainty. Author Rolland B offers a compelling narrative, arguing that the approach to education could either significantly bolster the nation or, conversely, lead to its downfall. He explores various facets of the educational landscape, from historical developments to the role of education as a social driver, crafting a multi-dimensional discussion that underscores his expertise and thorough research.
Rolland B emphasizes the evolving purpose of education, reflecting the shifting demands of society. He particularly highlights the critical role schools play in nurturing the interpersonal skills of future citizens. A notable strength of the book is its reliance on data, including mission statements from numerous school districts, which supports a well-founded discussion on educational disparities, especially in funding across the K-12 system. The author does not shy away from contentious topics. He argues that the decline in civic and history education has diminished young people's understanding of democratic principles, a point that ignites fervent debate among educators and policymakers alike. Rolland B's writing is infused with a mix of passion and lament for the current generation, which he believes is fundamentally disadvantaged by existing educational inequities.
With persuasive language and evident concern, Rolland B not only critiques the status quo but also encourages the reader to advocate for substantial reforms in public education. His approach is both an urgent warning and a rallying cry for broader engagement with educational policy, making The Case for Values Education an essential read for anyone invested in the future of the nation's education system. It serves as a critical call to action, urging all, regardless of parental status, to influence policymakers and instigate meaningful change.
April Pulliam, Assistant Editor, Literary Titan
Poverty of the Mind In the Land of the Free, by Rolland B, incisively critiques contemporary American political ideologies and leadership and meticulously examines the flawed perspectives and solutions proposed by today's political figures, asserting that even an elite education cannot shield one from having an impoverished mind. Through thought-provoking chapters, the book scrutinizes the opposition to the assault weapons ban, Trump-backed election deniers, the Republican Party, Wyoming voters, and other pertinent political subjects. Beyond his insightful analysis of the current political climate, the author advocates for a reformed educational system to better prepare future leaders.
In an era where public discourse often stifles the voices of writers and artists, this book stands out as a breath of fresh air. Rolland B's unfiltered and incisive commentary on American politics offers readers a deeper understanding of the critical issues at hand. His adept use of rhetorical questions, irony, and logical reasoning effectively convey his perspective, engaging readers in a meaningful dialogue about the state of the nation.
The author excels in dissecting the controversies surrounding influential figures such as Trump and Bill O’Reilly, grounding his arguments with quotes from articles and other sources. The book also examines the broader influences of media groups, political parties, and professionals, providing a comprehensive view of the factors shaping America's political landscape. Particularly striking is the author's revelation of a Fox News team broadcasting false information, fully aware of its fabrication.Poverty of the Mind In the Land of the Free will resonate with intellectuals and neutral readers who value objective analysis over partisan allegiance. From uncovering scathing scandals to exposing shameful cover-ups, Rolland B presents undeniable evidence and compellingly argues for greater scrutiny in choosing our leaders. This timely and thorough exploration of the flaws in American politics is essential reading for anyone concerned about the future of freedom and democracy. His candid and eye-opening words serve as a catalyst for the much-needed transformation of the political system in the USA.