Aldine Hosts Real Men, Real Talk Discussion

On Tuesday, June 16, Aldine ISD, along with Education Elements, hosted a RealMen, Real Talk, A Candid Conversation about Race and Life in America.

The virtual conversation was directed towards middle school and high school African-American students. The students had a safe space to discuss race, society, and the current tensions following the recent national protests and unrest connected to the death of Houston native George Floyd.

Justin Toomer with Education Elements served as MC for the event, which was lives reamed via Zoom.

Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney felt it was important for the district’s males to have a vehicle to express how they are feeling during these challenging times.

“We are committed to ensuring schools are designed to be places where students can thrive academically and socially,” she said. “That includes highlighting student voices and building stronger and genuine relationships with staff.”

Close to 150 students and Aldine ISD male administrators, principals, counselors, teachers, and coaches from across the district participated in the event.

Ronnie Price, a 12-year veteran of the NBA and currently a real estate investor and Texas native, and Alzo Slade, a correspondent for VICE News Tonight, were special guests for the event.

Price, who overcame a lack of height to forge a 12-year NBA career, told the students how important a role they can play in bringing about real change in America.

“All of you have a responsibility and a role as new leaders,” he said. “I challenge you to hold each other accountable. Ignore the ignorant comments. Read as much as you can, and ask questions.”

Slade, a graduate of Prairie View A&M University, challenged the students to become leaders.

“Ask questions and be critical thinkers,” he said. “You all are our future. Everybody

should have a role in this thing. Be balanced about things and never quit learning and studying.”

Following Price and Slade’s remarks, the students went into breakout rooms where they discussed issues with male mentors from across Aldine ISD.

The students were given four challenges to think about while discussing things with their mentors:

1. Provide a platform for students to be heard
2. Build a connection with peers and facilitators
3. Gain a historical context of what is currently going on
4. Identify potential approaches to make meaningful change.

Kameron Lewis, who will be entering the eighth grade at Plummer Middle School when the 2020-21 school year begins, found the event to be eye-opening.

“I thought it was a great event,” Kameron said. “I learned things I didn’t fully understand before, and I got a better understanding of what’s going on in the world now and what went on before.”

Kameron, 13, said he thought the breakout sessions were beneficial to him and his peers.

“The people in my breakout room were active and communicating with me,” he said. “I thought to be in there helped me understand stereotypes better.”

After taking part in the event, would he be open to looking into getting involved in student government?

“I never really thought about it, but I would be open to looking into it.”

Aldine ISD Chief Communications Officer Sheleah Reed organized the event.