This book presents the experiences and ideas of a leading black educator, interweaving his autobiography with the stories of contemporary street gang members and former members. Their own words illustrate Gentry's thesis that even the hardest gang members want to get an education and want to find The Hope Factor. In addition, the book offers an approach for dealing with the greatest challenges facing the nation today: urban violence and the miseducation of minority youth.Gentry begins by outlining his major themes and then examines American urban education, using his own personal history as well as his more than 25 years of experience in the field. He then provides exemplary case studies and proposes practical solutions. The book is addressed to future teachers and administrators as well as to those now in urban schools, and to all concerned with the state of urban and minority education.

The research in this book addresses complex problems using the power of simplicity. Atron tells the stories of street gang members and simply says, 'These are America's children. They want a chance like anyone else. We all need hope.' Atron writes as an education professor and as a black male raised up and schooled in America. Learning to Survive shows us school and street truths, from both the inside and the outside. Ever since I met Atron, I have admired how he creates hope in his life and his work. He has always kept a shy distance, respecting my celebrity. I am very, very proud to contribute to this book and to be a part of 'The Hope Factor.' From the foreword by William H. Cosby, Jr., Ed.D.

AcknowledgmentsIntroductionAmerica's Children in CrisisEducation and Black YouthWestside StoriesThe Boyz (and Girls) in the 'HoodPace School, Los Angeles CountyInstitutional Racism and RenewalA National Agenda to Save Urban YouthReferences