Latest news with #Ramey
Miami Herald
4 days ago
- Health
- Miami Herald
Five-decade study: Black girls build on preschool success, while Black boys struggle in some measures
Decades before the Trump administration forbade using federal funding for research into the topic, Craig Ramey wondered if high-quality early education for Black children in North Carolina might improve their life outcomes. Armed with a grant from the National Institutes of Health, Ramey established the Abecedarian Project at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. The study assigned infants, most of them Black, who had been born into low-income families between 1972 and 1977, to an intervention group that received full-time, high-quality child care from infancy through age 5. (The project name was drawn from an old-fashioned term meaning someone who is just learning their ABCs.) In the 1960s and '70s, researchers lacked a full understanding of why children from disadvantaged backgrounds had developmental delays compared to their more advantaged peers, said Ramey, now 81 and a professor and researcher at Virginia Tech. "What I wanted to address is whether we could prevent that delay from occurring in the first place," he said. The children in the intervention group received individualized prescriptions of educational activities and games that focused on social, emotional and cognitive areas of development, withe particular emphasis on language. Researchers tracked the participants well into their mid-40s, comparing them to a control group that did not receive the services. Their latest findings, published last year in the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, found different results for Black boys and Black girls who were enrolled in the program. Both boys and girls in the early education intervention group showed significant gains through their elementary, middle and high school years. That finding matches that of other long-running early education research programs, such as the Perry Preschool Project, which tracked subjects in Ypsilanti, Michigan, from their toddler years into their 50s. Related: Young children have unique needs and providing the right care can be a challenge. Our free early childhood education newsletter tracks the issues. But the study also showed that while Black women continued to build on those cognitive gains into adulthood, the progress of Black men stalled out. By their mid-40s, the students' cognitive outcomes were significantly different, with Black women continuing to gain in IQ, reading and math skills while Black males wound up scoring the same as those in the control group - their gains virtually erased. "When boys hit adolescence they face some rocks in the road that are maybe different from what girls face," Ramey said. The latest research looked only at results on cognitive measures; other research into the Abecedarian participants found long-lasting positive outcomes in other areas, such as health and social development. What the Abecedarian Project showed, Ramey says, is that at-risk children don't have to enter the education system already further behind. "We can change that and we can change it much more dramatically with much bigger and with longer-lasting results than anyone would have bet 30 years ago," he said. "In part that's due to a lot of our findings, and I'm proud of that." But few, if any, programs have been able to successfully bridge that gender gap in long-term results. And now, many efforts to figure out how to support Black boys - or young Black children in general - are on the chopping block, as the Trump administration shuts down federal funding for research related to promoting educational equity. Related: Sending your boy to preschool is great for your grandson, new research shows Brian Wright, an associate professor and program coordinator for early education at the University of Memphis, said he has already had one research project canceled as a result of the Trump administration's sweeping elimination of federal grants and programs. That project, which would have been funded by the National Science Foundation, was to be a longitudinal study following kindergarteners through third grade to better understand, through a racial equity lens, their access and participation in STEM classes. In late April, the Trump administration told the National Science Foundation to stop awarding new grants and funding existing ones. In fact, few - if any - programs today provide low-income children of color with the level of support that the Abecedarian Project did. "I've been from the West Coast to the East Coast, I've interviewed teachers and families and children all over the nation," said Wright. "I get asked often this question of can I identify programs that are exemplars. I'm usually not able to do that." Wright's research has illuminated which elements are essential for such high-quality early education programs, starting with educators who have deep training in elevating and celebrating the culture, race and traditions of students of color, who create spaces for them to play, enjoy childhood and feel understood, and whose class libraries and lessons reflect students' own experiences and realities. Related: Behind the findings of the Tennessee pre-K study that found negative effects for graduates And for Black boys in particular, Wright said, these elements need to be paired with programs later in middle school and high school that preserve their childhood instead of rushing them through adolescence to prepare them for adulthood and the workforce. The question, however, is how much more of that work can be done under the current administration. Earlier this month, Wright and other policy experts and practitioners who focus on building high-quality education programs for students of color hosted a panel discussion at George Washington University to sound the alarm on the fact that not only is there a dearth of programs equipped to support Black boys, but federal officials are actively eliminating the best of those programs' practices. "There are pockets where these things exist, but there's certainly more work that needs to be done," Wright says. "The fact that we can't name programs that are exemplars is telling that we have a lot of work to do." This story about Black boys was produced by The Hechinger Report, a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education. Sign up for the Hechinger newsletter. The post Five-decade study: Black girls build on preschool success, while Black boys struggle in some measures appeared first on The Hechinger Report.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Rock Band Lead Vocalist Dead at 32 as Members Share Heartfelt Tribute
, lead vocalist of the rock band Dropout Kings, is dead at 32. On Tuesday, May 20, the Dropout Kings' official Facebook account announced the singer's sudden death. 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 "Life comes at you in ways you can never predict," the post began. "The rollercoaster of chasing your dreams and building with your brothers and friends is a joy few get to know in the most genuine sense and one we were beyond blessed to experience with one another as Dropout Kings." The heartbroken bandmates continued, "Even still, we cannot always expect things to go the way we dream nor can we understand just how special each moment with our friends and family are until those moments are memories." That's when they revealed the devastating news, although they didn't specify Ramey's cause of death. "With the heaviest hearts, we share that our brother, Adam Ramey has passed away," the statement added. "His passion, energy, and love for music shaped Dropout Kings and touched countless lives. We're devastated to say the least, but Adam's spirit, charisma and energy will not only forever inspire us, but will push us into the future to be the best that we can." In the comments, fans flooded the surviving band members with their heartbroken reactions. One Facebook user wrote, "Adam, your passion for music will always be remembered. Your energy was infectious and your love for music shaped Dropout Kings. Rest in power." Another fan shared, "RIP man. Genuinely one of the nicest people I've ever met, I have no other words." Someone else echoed, "Absolutely breaks my heart. Adam was such an inspiring person with his work ethic and perseverance. A true soul, a kind person who uplifted those around him. We're all gonna miss you so much brother." Ramey co-founded Dropout Kings in 2016 and was featured in the band's albums AudioDope (2018) and Riot Music (2023). Next:
Metro
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Dropout Kings singer Adam Ramey dies aged 32 after ‘painful battle'
Dropout Kings singer Adam Ramey has sadly died at the age of 32, as his bandmates have paid tribute to the star. The metal band, best known for their songs Hey Uh, Going Rogue, Bad Day, and Headcase, have shared some devastating news with fans. The band announced on social media that Ramey died on May 19, and honoured his memory in a heartfelt post. 'Life comes at you in ways you can never predict. The rollercoaster of chasing your dreams and building with your brothers and friends is a joy few get to know in the most genuine sense and one we were beyond blessed to experience with one another as Dropout Kings. 'Even still, we cannot always expect things to go the way we dream nor can we understand just how special each moment with our friends and family are until those moments are memories. 'With the heaviest hearts, we share that our brother, Adam Ramey has passed away. His passion, energy, and love for music shaped Dropout Kings and touched countless lives. We're devastated to say the least, but Adam's spirit, charisma and energy will not only forever inspire us, but will push us into the future to be the best that we can. 'We appreciate you all during this time and know he absolutely did as well for all the times we've shared. Thank you for everything, Chip.' We've teamed up with SXSW London to give away two pairs of Music Festival Wristbands valid for 2-7 June 2025. Headliners include Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems, Brit Award-winning artist Mabel, Crystal Castles's Alice Glass, and East London-based R&B artist NAO, plus emerging talent set to perform at showcase acts around Shoreditch. Click here to find out more about SXSW London's incredible events and how to enter to be in with a chance to win, or simply enter your details using the form below. *T&Cs apply. You have until midnight on Sunday 25th May 2025 to enter. Good luck! * Open to legal residents of Great Britain (excluding Northern Ireland) aged 18 or over. Promotion opens at 06:01 BST on 13 May 2025 and closes at 23:59 BST on 25 May 2025. The promotion is free to enter; however internet access is required. Entrant must visit and when prompted by the form, submit their name, email, telephone number, date of birth and postcode. Acceptance of the terms and conditions (by ticking the relevant checkbox) is necessary to enter the promotion. 1 entry per person. 1 prize available per person. There will be two (2) winners. Each winner will win two (2) Full Week (6 days) Music Festival Wristbands (each such wristband worth £99) granting secondary access to Official SXSW London Music Festival showcases valid from 2 until 7 June 2025. Proof of age and photographic ID is required for entry (18+). The prize, including entry and attendance at SXSW, is subject to and governed by the SXSW's full ticket terms and conditions here. Full T&Cs apply, see here. A GoFundMe has been set up for his wife, Jamie and baby son Jude, with a statement from his sibling-in-law revealing that his death was addiction-related. 'On May 19th, just five days before his 32nd birthday, we lost Adam Ramey—beloved husband, father, son, and lead vocalist of Dropout Kings—to suicide after a long and painful battle with addiction. 'Adam wasn't just my brother-in-law. He was like a real brother to me. He saved my life during one of my darkest times and always showed up for the people he loved. 'He brought life and energy to every room, every family gathering, and every stage he stepped on. Watching him perform—especially at local shows in Phoenix or when he came to Tampa—was unforgettable. 'Adam loved deeply. He was a devoted husband to my 29-year-old sister, Jamie, and a proud father to their 18-month-old son, Jude. He was also an incredible uncle, friend, and human being. 'Now Jamie is left grieving the love of her life while raising their baby boy alone. She's facing not only unimaginable heartbreak but also the financial weight of funeral expenses and legal costs.' The page revealed that they were trying to raise $50,000 to support Jamie and Jude, with $41,677 already raised. Fellow artists and fans have reached out to pay tribute to the star. More Trending 'My little brother. I can't believe this. I love you Adam. I'm so sorry to everyone. Love you all,' said Joe Cotela on Instagram. 'So sad. Hope you boys find peace and healing 💔,' said Hardy. 'Sending my love, Adam was always so genuine and great to talk to/work with. An absolute heartbreaking loss ❤️,' said Jamersdesigner. For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice please contact PAPYRUS HOPELINEUK on 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email pat@ Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Ted Danson 'devastated' after Cheers co-star George Wendt dies aged 76 MORE: Doctor Who and Coronation Street star Michael McStay dies aged 92 as family pay tribute MORE: Rock's most bitter break-ups as The Who axe drummer Zak Starkey again
New York Post
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Dropout Kings lead singer Adam Ramey dead by suicide at 31 — days before his birthday
Adam Ramey, the main vocalist and founding member of Dropout Kings, died after a 'long and painful battle with addiction' on Monday. He was 31 years old. Ramey committed suicide just five days before he was set to celebrate his 32nd birthday, according to a GoFundMe page set up by Ramey's sister-in-law. 'Adam wasn't just my brother-in-law,' Jamie Varner wrote on the fundraising page. 'He was like a real brother to me. He saved my life during one of my darkest times and always showed up for the people he loved. 3 Dropout Kings frontman Adam Ramey died by suicide on Monday. Dropout Kings/Instagram 'He brought life and energy to every room, every family gathering, and every stage he stepped on. Watching him perform—especially at local shows in Phoenix or when he came to Tampa—was unforgettable.' Money raised by the GoFundMe page will pay for funeral and memorial expenses and help give immediate financial support to Ramey's 29-year-old widow, Jamie, and set up a college fund for their 18-month-old son, Jude. 'Now Jamie is left grieving the love of her life while raising their baby boy alone,' the family member continued on the GoFundMe. 'She's facing not only unimaginable heartbreak but also the financial weight of funeral expenses and legal costs.' The page has raised $40,760 of its $60,000 goal as of Wednesday morning. Dropout Kings was formed in Phoenix in 2016 and described its style as 'a generational evolution of rap-infused rock bands such as Linkin Park and Limp Bizkit,' according to its website. The rap-metal group has released three albums since 2018 and has had songs like 'Unholy,' 'Glitch Gang,' and 'I Ain't Depressed' receive millions of listens across platforms. Ramey's bandmates reacted to the tragic news of the frontman's death on Monday. 'Life comes at you in ways you can never predict,' the statement wrote. 'The rollercoaster of chasing your dreams and building with your brothers and friends is a joy few get to know in the most genuine sense and one we were beyond blessed to experience with one another as Dropout Kings.' 3 A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Ramey's widow and son financially. GoFundMe 3 'Jamie is left grieving the love of her life while raising their baby boy alone,' a family member wrote on the GoFundMe. GoFundMe 'Even still, we cannot always expect things to go the way we dream nor can we understand just how special each moment with our friends and family are until those moments are memories.' The group's guitarist, Rob Sebastian, said the response to Ramey's death has been 'too overwhelming.' 'I f–king love you more than words can f–king say, man,' Sebastian wrote in an Instagram story posted during the overnight hours on Monday. 'I want you back here … with us, with your family .. this isn't real. It's absolutely ridiculous.' 'Please support my late great brother's family as we attempt to recover from this devastating loss,' the band's emcee, Eddie 'Black Cat Bill' Wellz,' wrote in an Instagram story on Tuesday. 'Thank you for all your concern and love. This is beyond words.' If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Yahoo
Woman arrested for attempted homicide in Amador County
( — A 35-year-old woman was arrested on Monday in connection with an attempted homicide, according to the Amador County Sheriff's Office. Video Above: Homicide vs Murder vs Manslaughter ACSO said deputies received reports of a man being stabbed around 6:18 a.m. on Saturday in the Martell area. Deputies could not initially find the involved person when they arrived, but they were later notified that the Sutter Amador Hospital was treating a victim with a stab wound. Deputies and sheriff's office detectives responded to the report. ACSO discovered the suspect to be Brittnee Marie Casey of Jackson, who was on active post-release community supervision out of Calaveras County. The sheriff's office and the Calaveras County Probation Department discovered she had cut off the ankle monitor that was assisting with her supervision. A Ramey Warrant for attempted murder, along with a Be on the Look Out, was issued. Deputies discover homicide during disturbance call Around 3 p.m. on Monday, ACSO detectives responded to a home for a follow-up investigation. Detectives discovered Casey was hiding in the residence. The suspect surrendered a was arrested without incident. Casey was booked into the Amador County Jail for attempted murder and corporal injury on spouse or cohabitant. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
