Are schools a house of shame that eats its young or an institution that best represents the ideals of humanity? A look at the news slants us towards the former but when you work with the kids, there is little doubt it’s the latter.

For example, stories like this freak everyone out. I mean cage fights at high school? If I put this in a book, I think I’d have a hard time selling it because it’s just too far-fetched. But as the ol’ saying goes, truth is stranger than fiction. You almost can’t make this stuff up.

Then again, when you read about kids like Denise, you feel good to know that there are some take-charge kids out there making their schools — and this world — a better place.

Budget cuts are ripping everyone’s heart out. But teachers are becoming more innovative and resourceful than ever before.

Political shenanigans are omnipresent yet sentiments of positive change are all about and everyone can feel the tide is turning in a better direction.

So, is the school’s milk carton half empty or half full? (And what does your answer say about you?)