Educational Leadership Associates, LLC

09/17/2026

05/25/2026

Memorial to Remember and Honor

Memorial Day, celebrated on the last Monday of May, stands as a heartfelt tribute to the courageous men and women who laid down their lives in service to our country. Once known as "Decoration Day," in the wake of the Civil War, evolving to honor and remember the valiant souls who safeguarded our freedoms, Memorial Day is recognized as a federal holiday since 1971, providing an opportunity for all Americans to come together in a spirit of reflection and gratitude, remembering the bravery and commitment of those who have served.

Remember the Purpose

Beyond mere remembrance, Memorial Day invites us to revel in the enduring spirit of patriotism that binds our nation together, reminding us that while we honor the past, we also celebrate the values of courage and sacrifice that continue to inspire us today. So as we gather with friends and family, let us not only remember but also embrace the heartwarming camaraderie and unshakable pride that accompanies this day of remembrance.

Remember the Fallen

As we gather at cemeteries to honor the brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, remember the profound legacy left by those who served in military conflicts across the globe—from water strait near Iran to the deserts of Kuwait to the rugged mountains of Afghanistan, and from the jungles of Vietnam to the battlefields of Europe and Korea.

Remember the Sacrifice

With each American flag placed on their graves, we not only pay tribute to our fallen heroes but also forge a deeper connection with our cherished memories of loved ones who didn’t return. This sacred act is a powerful reminder of their courage and dedication, inspiring us to carry their spirit forward in our own lives, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. Let us remember them with gratitude and reflect on the freedoms we enjoy today, thanks to their unwavering commitment to duty and country.

Remember the Scars

In every military engagement, soldiers who came home, have suffered physical disfigurements, and mental trauma. Let us remembers those who came back, but different, with bodies and minds that seem a distant past.

Remember the Freedom

Enjoy Memorial Day, remembering and honoring those who gave the ultimate and lingering sacrifice, so that we can live in a free nation.

With Remembrance!

Lew Blackburn, Ph.D.
Educational Leadership Associates, LLC

11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving
Educational Leadership Associates LLC.
Lew Blackburn, PhD

10/10/2025

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09/18/2025

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09/18/2025

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07/04/2025

Happy Independence Day!

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

Are we the people?

Consider a comparison of anthem viewpoints, from different points of view about freedom and independence.

“O say can you see by the dawn's early light. What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?”

“Lift every voice and sing, 'Til earth and heaven ring, Ring with the harmonies of Liberty;”

Since 1941, July 4th, also known as Independence Day, has been a federal holiday. However, the tradition of Independence Day celebrations started back in the 18th century around the American Revolution.

It's for freedom!

“Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight, O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?”

“Let our rejoicing rise. High as the list'ning skies, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.”

Fighting to be an independent sovereignty, on July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence as a nation of people. On July 4, delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson.

It's for independence!

“And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof through the night that our flag
was still there.”

“Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the
present has brought us;”

Since 1776, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence. We celebrate with festivities such as fireworks, parades and concerts, and family gatherings with barbecues.

It's a celebration of freedom and independence!

“O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave, O'er the land of the free and the home of the
brave?”

“Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on 'til victory is won.”

Essentially, the United States of America is a nation of immigrants, coming here for a better life, except for Africans and others who were brought here as slaves. Considering the immigration concerns playing out now, are we accepting of others, wanting to have a better life, in America?

I am proud to be an American. Enjoy Independence Day, and the freedom it represents.

12/26/2024

Merry CHRISTmas!
Christmas is one of my favorite holidays. As a young child, I looked forward to the gifts that Santa Claus would bring, separate from the gifts I expected from my parents.

During my teenage years, I began to think about gifts I would give to others. As a parent, I became the giver of gifts for my children, Lew, Jr., Dorsha, and Clinton. And now, with my grandchildren, Emma, Zoe, Elle, Erin, Hannah, and Adrian, I am reliving the joys of children’s laughter at the thought of Christmas gifts. It is one of my favorite gifts of the season. But, there is still a greater gift, of love.

I enjoy Christmas so much because of the giving spirit it brings. People give to family and friends, and to those who do not have much. Even those who don’t have much are giving what little they can, to spread good cheer to others who are even less fortunate.

You may recall a story of another gift giver, who appeared to not have very much, but brought lots of joy to the world.

Many children will have a wonderful Christmas holiday because of their parents, families, friends, and generous supporters. I hope they enjoy a very happy holiday season.

I want to thank school employees for their caring spirits, dedication, and commitment to students. I hope their hearts are filled with good cheer this season. More importantly, I want them to remember the real reason for this season; the greatest gift giver, the peacemaker.

When people ask what I want for Christmas, I am reminded of a bible passage, Luke 2:10-14; And the angel said unto the shepherds, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you. Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” They were happy.

My wife Donna and I hope you will feel the spirit of the best gift of all, Jesus Christ. Enjoy the holiday reason. Give and receive lots of love, joy, peace, and happiness.

Merry CHRISTmas!

Sincerely,

Lew Blackburn, Ph.D.
President, Educational Leadership Associates, LLC
Vice President, The Blackburn Foundation
Former Dallas ISD Trustee (Ret.)

11/28/2024

Happy Thanksgiving from Educational Leadership Associates LLC.
Lew Blackburn