Articles written by Tony Odom

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About me - Tony Odom

Opinion Writer: Mississippi State Univeristy Reflector (2000-2003)

Lecturer, Mississippi State University (2003-2005)

Teacher, Aberdeen High School, (2005-2006)

Teacher, Carthage Jr. High, (2006-2007)

Teacher, New Hope Middle School (2007-present)

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Arts & Humanities > Colonial & Early American History Was America founded as a Christian nation?: 8 of 78
Yes, America was a "Christian" nation in that it was not founded by Jews or Hindus. But the foundations of the government are decidedly non-religious. The Constitution was written by men who were well versed in the history of the previous 300 years. They knew that Europe had seen nearly uninterrupted warfare between Catholic ... More..
Education > Teachers & Administrators Should students be held accountable for their failing grades: 2 of 15
On the frst day of school, I always make this announcement:"I will not give anyone an "F" in this class."This grabs many students attention, and garners several smiles and "all rights!"Then I drop this one:"I will not give anyone an "A" in this class either."Puzzled looks abound.Then I drop this bombshell:"I do not believe in... More..
Education > Secondary School (Other) Benefits of junior ROTC for high school students: 1 of 4
For three years, I was a Junior ROTC cadet at my high school in Georgia. I can honestly say that it was one of the most rewarding educational experiences I ever had. For starters, the discipline of the program taught me to hold myself to a higher standard. Such lessons are valuable to any young person at any point in time. I'... More..
Education > Education (Other) Should school vouchers be allowed for parochial schools?: 3 of 9
School vouchers, for any school, would come from tax money. Anytime taxpayer money is involved, it is not beyond the scope of reality to consider that federal regulations can soon follow. Imagine a world of vouchers for just a moment. Now imagine a church school that refuses to hire homosexual teachers, or single parent teach... More..
Politics, News & Issues > War in Iraq Should the US pull out its troops regardless of whether Iraq is ready to defend its people?: 83 of 214
The Iraqi parliament recently adjourned for three weeks because it was too hot in Baghdad. This is not something you have to tell the average American combat soldier in Baghdad. Unlike Iraqi parliamentarians however, the average American combat soldier cannot take a break from the heat for 3 weeks. Nor can he take a break fro... More..
Education > Education (Other) Is the No Child Left Behind law beneficial for children?: 2 of 4
A conversation in Mississippi:Guy 1: You know, our state is among the national leaders in obesity. It's a shame and we should do something about it.Guy 2: I agree, and I have a plan to deal with it..Guy 1: Okay, so what is it?Guy 2: Well, first of all, we need more good doctors. We just don't have enough in this state.Guy 1: ... More..
Politics, News & Issues > US Law & Justice (Other) How the Federal Government is using test scores to defeat public schools: 2 of 4
The problem is that in comparing public schools to private schools, you are comparing apples to hamburgers. Public schools, by law, have to take everyone. No one can be turned away from a public school. This applies to children with learning disabilities, mental disabilities, or social disabilities. Those children have to be ... More..
Religion & Spirituality > Religion & Spirituality (Other) Should the Bible continue to be used for swearing-in ceremonies and in courtrooms?: 146 of 254
Using the Bible at swearing-in ceremonies and such is just that: a ceremony. In the grand scheme of events it is meaningless and reduces the Bible to a prop in that great meaninglessness. As a Christian, I find this to be highly offensive. Another point worth noting is that having someone swear to tell the truth or to faithfu... More..
Education > Secondary School (Other) Should school districts provide cash rewards for high grades and test scores?: 48 of 67
First of all, you face the question of where this money will come from. Contrary to popular belief, schools do not have magic money trees where they can pick baskets of cash whenever they need it.Second, does a child who makes an "A" in a class that does not challenge them earn more or less than a child who has to bust his or... More..
Creative Writing > Humor Humor: Sports: 19 of 24
I do not understand why everyone is so up in arms about the BCS. Clearly, the sages who choose the BCS poll are much smarter than us, which is why they get to choose the BCS. Now a lot of people are saying the college football should have a playoff like every other sport on the planet, but if they did, it wouldn't be college ... More..