If we didn't need guidance counselors, it was because we had a host of other people playing that advisory role and making sure we stayed on track. But far too many low-income youth lack the social networks to provide the guidance, connections, and encouragement they need to succeed. And they can get off track entirely.

Traveling by car with my 13-year-old daughter to visit the Southwest's magnificent national parks gave us ample time for listening to the new remix of Let's Talk about Sex (Baby). I would have preferred to listen to public radio, but we made that grand compromise years ago.

What if your socioeconomic status growing up impacted how much you would earn, even with the same level of education as others? It turns out that's exactly what happens.

Evidence shows unequivocally that pre-K gives children from poor families an "early advantage." The critical question for our time must be how to make that advantage sustainable.

My Facebook feed is full of people who have the most awesome jobs they have ever worked, who eat at the most amazing brunch spots ever to wield spatulas and pour pancake batter and who experience exhilaration and inspiration everyday. It's all faux-inspirational quotes and self-aggrandizement.