Heads Up In Our Classes: The Un-Reeducation of America

by C. L. Kallis BRTR

213 pages, Paperback

Published December 19, 2025

Reviews

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still reading, but some fascinating data so far on the conflation of statistics and long-term academic success (I.e. schools where the author shows that astronomical HS graduation rates and aspirational missions to prepare students for post-secondary success do not actually translate to college attendance and graduation rates.) In fact, he further shows that this data holds true nationally, as only a third of students will actually graduate with a bachelors degree. So if missions aren’t being achieved, then are they missions at all or false north stars?

As a parent, I’ve thought a lot about my role. At some point, we’re less of a guide and more of an advisor. And as miserable as it is to watch it happen, I want my kids to navigate hurdles so that they’re better positioned to problem solve through life without me. Those hard moments have been where I know I have learned what better looks like, and I’m endlessly grateful for the teachers/mentors/advisors that cared enough and gave me the space to help me grow. To help me achieve what I’m capable of, and what a realistic outcome is for me. I want to trust our public institutions and teachers to hold students to standards that challenge them to achieve that potential, but don’t guarantee it. Success isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario, and I think that’s a healthier, more balanced way to view education.

I want to thank CL Kallis for exploring things that are hard for us all to think about, and for challenging us to be both realistic and rigorous. Failing isn’t the failure, but never truly trying certainly is.

[Daniel Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author C.L. Kallis gives a first-hand account of the failings in our current education system. As a parent of two high school-age students, this was an uncomfortable but eye-opening read. While the details are frustrating and, at times, maddening, the author guides us through the bureaucracy with humor and fairness—although I would not want to recognize myself as one of the real-life characters that lead our schools with astounding cowardice. Our teachers need more support and independence to do what they are ostensibly hired to do: teach! And our students deserve so much more than this. Highly recommended if you are a parent, teacher, and most of all, principal or CEO in our nation's failing education system.

[G Blenstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book started with a punch in the face and ended with a kick in the butt! It is everything we teachers cannot say! It does lay blame, rightfully so, but a few paragraphs later, they outline how each stakeholder can hold up their end of the bargain.

As the dedication says, it is for teachers, parents, administrators, and students. As this is a new book, it'll be interesting to see how it is received. This could be a big one!