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When Civics Is Taught by Soldiers Instead of Teachers
In a tense classroom, students try to focus on their studies while watching federal agents antagonize parents outside. (Google ImageFx)...

Marcus Flenaugh
Sep 93 min read


Stranded Twice: How Transit Cuts and CPS Policy Are Failing Chicago’s Youth Again
First CPS cut the school bus. Now CTA might cut the train.
Our youth can’t afford to be stranded twice.
Read why these transit cuts hit harder than you think.

Marcus Flenaugh
Aug 153 min read


Chicago Can't Claim Arts Culture While Killing It in Our Schools
I love my City, especially in the summer! This is when Chicago really gets to flex its cultural muscles. World-class restaurants, house...

Marcus Flenaugh
May 303 min read


Fear Gets Billions. Belonging Gets Leftovers. What If We Flipped That?
In Chicago, we don’t have a shortage of young people with potential. We have a shortage of consistent, caring spaces where they are allowed to show up fully, make mistakes, and still be embraced.
The success of restorative practices in schools shows us the way: when we offer grace instead of punishment, growth follows. The same applies outside the classroom. What if we funded belonging the way we fund policing? What if we invested in “safe spaces to fail”?

Marcus Flenaugh
Apr 237 min read


Youth Don’t Need More Curfews—They Need More Choices
This article challenges the narrative surrounding so-called “teen takeovers” in Chicago, arguing that the real issue isn’t youth behavior, but systemic disinvestment in Black communities. Drawing from personal experience , we highlight how public institutions have failed to provide consistent, accessible, and engaging opportunities for young people—especially after hours. While curfews dominate headlines, youth across the city are organizing, leading, and demanding partnershi

Marcus Flenaugh
Apr 154 min read


" Catching Bodies" Exposed: What Parents Need To Know
The “Catching Bodies” trend involves teens making pacts to engage in sexual activities with multiple partners within a specific timeframe, often to boost social status among peers. This behavior is frequently influenced by social media, peer pressure, and group dynamics.

Marcus Flenaugh
Mar 185 min read
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