Man, I wouldn't know where to begin on education reform, but one thing we have to do is add teacher accountability WITHOUT stressing standardized test scores.
In general, being independent is so liberating, you get to create without someone looking over your shoulders.
I hate to sound like an old fuddy duddy, but the game has changed.
Teachers literally break down at the thought that if their students have a bad a test day, their job is on the line.
Many people think you shouldn't stop kids from being kids, and I agree, but no one wants the worst case scenario on their hands. Better safe than sorry I say.
Never have one kid in the room with you, and avoid situations that would look suspect to a passerby.
I was taught from a young age that as a teacher, especially a male, you are to never be alone with a female, or even a male student.
These kids know so much these days, and are bigger, stronger and quicker mentally. We just have to find out how to use it for good and not evil.
Kids are great in that they keep you on your toes. They're like a puzzle... in a blender, haha. You have to take the pieces out and try to put it together on the fly.
I've had some parents ask me to do private birthday parties for their students, which I can't do, but it's an honor that they even ask. I love the feedback I get from parents on my music, it's so awesome.
When you have a great idea, and don't rush it, things can work itself out.
Anytime you have to sacrifice your art, or integrity, it's a bad deal, no matter what they're offering.
If you intend on building a solid career, it's best to not worry about the major label approach. It's a trade-off that most true artists shouldn't have to make.
I have friends with deals, both major and indie, and the ones on majors never seem as happy, and quite frankly aren't making music as strong as those on independents.
There's no major label in the world that would have let me make video game music, then conscious hip hop. They want you to find your audience, your lane, and stay in it until it ends. I can't do that.
People with education get out of the classroom as soon as they can and jump into administration or higher ed, there just needs to be some motivating factor for teachers to stay in the classrooms and excel. It's that simple.
