Book no.1

A CRISIS OF COMPETENCE

"Competence is an enduring ability to do something effectively,

yielding fruitfulness both qualitatively and quantitatively.

Competence consists of demonstrated skills, abilities,

and knowledge for a specific field of study."

IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM

The first challenge is to see the problem, and this book helps readers admit the grave trend of decline in students produced by our educational system.
The chapter "What Will Happen If We Do Not Change" persuasively motivates readers that the consequences of sweeping this problem under the rug, or kicking it down the road, will make it unsolvable.

AMERICAN IDENTITY

American identity - in ourselves, and in the world.
Something that impressed me from day one was your passion for America. In a day when "blame America" is the usual message from reformers in any field, Dr. Nixon's message is "let's save America" by producing more competent students.
The other side is the identification of other nations' passion to excel and outrace us.

APPEAL TO PROVEN PRIORITIES

The emphasis on student character and responsibility is priceless, and all the more in a day when student passivity is being noticed throughout our nation....
The quotes from the two Claudes, MLK, and the book's total appeal to past wisdom and results make this far more than Clarence Nixon proclaiming his own discovery.
This also gives people hope that the answers are not elusive, yet to be discovered, or dependent on tech not yet available.

AFRICAN AMERICAN SPOTLIGHT

The book successfully avoids being a poor-me trope like so many who write today about African Americans.
In keeping with 2a above, Dr. Nixon urges African Americans to solve their educational challenges without dependency.
Dr. Nixon provided so much hope with his appeal to the proven history of achievements in the African American community.
The book highlight the proven character of many African Americans whose hurdles and obstacles were far greater than today's far softer prejudices.

AN EYE-OPENING PATH FOR PARENTS

"Even with my own grandson with us for the summer, my wife and I have implemented what you wrote about character."
The support systems for character and responsibility available to older generations aren't incorporated into modern education; the parent has to supply it.
The influence of fatherhood and active parents can inspire their children to far higher achievement than assumed in current education models.

TESTIMONIALS

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As a member of t.Lab's International Advisory Board, I am thrilled to support the national initiative to increase the median ACT score for African Americans from 16.1 to 25. A Crisis of Competence shines a light on the root-cause problems and solutions in this endeavor, which is key to its success. The book offers exact metrics and methodologies to inform the strategy, but it also emphasizes the importance of character and academic rigor. The rigorous approach to understanding these issues is both necessary and long overdue. It's clear that t.Lab recognizes the need for this kind of deep dive into our education system, and I'm confident that their efforts will be successful in making a difference in students' lives everywhere. I'm proud to support t.Lab's mission.

JAMES SKOGSBERGH

President and CEO, Advocate Aurora Health

Member, t.Lab International Advisory Board

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I am proud to have been one of the inaugural members of t.Lab's Governance Board and to witness first-hand its mission for spiritual, educational, and economic equality. A Crisis of Competence is a powerful book that highlights the root causes at play in our education system, as well as solutions we can use to level the playing field. I firmly believe that t.Lab is the key to achieving our collective goal of increasing the median ACT score for African Americans from 16.1 to 25, and helping them realize their full potential and inclusion in society. As a spiritual leader, I am deeply committed to this initiative and encourage everyone who wants to make a difference in our world to support this worthy cause.

Thank you for your commitment to education and equality! God bless you.

REV. LARRY S. BULLOCK, MDiv., MPA

Pastor, Living Faith Cathedral Worship Center Church

CEO, US Minority Contractors Association

Inaugural Member, t.Lab Governance Board

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I can attest to the power of t.Lab's national initiative and the effectiveness of A Crisis of Competence in increasing median ACT scores for African Americans from 16.1 to 25. We've been successful partners in developing t.Lab students at the college level, and I'm proud to say that we have achieved remarkable results thanks to this program. The focus on root-cause problems and solutions identified in A Crisis of Competence creates an environment that encourages the development of more competitive, competent students through excellence. I'm confident that t.Lab's initiative will continue to be successful in achieving its goals. Thank you for your dedication to this cause!

I'm proud to be part of this movement and stand behind the work they are doing. I strongly encourage others to join us in supporting t.Lab's mission!

Thank you for your dedication to creating a brighter future!

DR. LB MCCUNE

Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students

Kettering University

In The Press